Continuous sterilizer for canned products
Sterilization is a critical operation in the manufacturing of canned vegetables (such as corn, beans, peas, potatoes, and similar products). One of the challenges of upscaling canned vegetable processing units is optimizing this process to achieve commercial sterility and increase throughputs. A continuous rotary sterilizing solution dedicated to medium to large-scale producers can be helpful in meeting these goals.
An automated sterilizing mechanism minimizes energy consumption
The autoclave ACCT series of Hydrolock is a continuous rotating sterilizing unit and is a solution for the production of canned vegetables. It incorporates an automated mechanism that enables you to yield high-quality products while minimizing energy consumption. After the automatic loading of cans in rotating tubes, the product starts its journey by entering the pre-heating unit (if necessary), the sterilizing unit, and the cooling stage which takes place in the autoclave. After leaving the autoclave, products go through an atmospheric cooling unit, after which they are automatically unloaded.
The constant agitation during the preheating stage optimizes the process for you by heating the products to sterilization temperature. The constant agitation during the heating and cooling stages optimizes the process for you by preventing the product from getting burnt. Besides, the organoleptic qualities of the product can be well-improved thanks to HTST – High Temperature Short Time, for short sterilization time. This is only possible thanks to the aforementioned constant agitation. This process increases product quality, line throughput, and saves you 35% more on energy savings.
The pre-heating device of the Hydrolock ACCT series is used for energy recycling. The hot water coming from the cooling process is used for preheating the products before sterilization. During sterilization, products are fully surrounded by steam, providing a homogenous heat distribution with the aid of an efficient and effective hydraulic fan power system to avoid burning and over-cooking of the products.
The series can run different sizes and different materials within the same machine depending on packaging. The speed range goes upward from 100 cartons per minute to 690 cartons per minute depending on the product, its best sterilization time, packaging, and other critical parameters. The ACCT series is made out of stainless steel guaranteeing longevity, easy maintenance, and cleaning.
Benefits
- Designed for medium and large-scale production
- User-friendly operation
- Flexible packaging