Continuous flow processes

What is a continuous flow thermal process and how can we validate it?

For continuous thermal processes such as HTST (High Temperature Short Time) or UHT (Ultra High Temperature), the product is constantly flowing through equipment such as heat exchangers and holding tubes before being filled into its final packaging. The method for validating the thermal process should therefore be approached in a completely different way in comparison to traditional in-pack processes.

Campden BRI can offer many services relating to continuous flow processing:

• Calculations to verify worst-case residence time through the holding tube, accounting for flow regime and holding tube geometry
• Interpretation of residence time and temperature records to determine a worse case F0 value or pasteurisation value
• Cook value calculations to ensure maximum quality is retained. Particularly useful for milk and milk-based products
• Creation of a process matrix or calculator for you to use, showing how changing temperature and flow settings will affect the achieved F0, pasteurisation or cook value
• Verification of flow diversion device usage
• Validation against specific legal requirements, for example against the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance in the USA or the wider FDA or USDA legal requirements

If you, or your suppliers, are using continuous flow thermal processing technologies and support is required please do get in touch. You won’t find equivalent services in this area anywhere else.

Key services

Heat process validation

Many factors affect the amount of heat delivered, the product it contains, and the degree of mixing during the process.

Pilot plant facilities

Food and drink pilot plant facilities, covering over 3000m2.

Thermal processing

Thermal processing is at the centre of food preservation.

Food product development

Developing new food and drink products is a complex process, we can help across the full range of food types.

Food cooking or reheating instructions

Knowledge and expertise for microwave and conventionally heated products.

New technologies services and information

Exploring new and emerging process technologies for industry use.

Pilot plant (on-line)

Develop new products, analyze existing processes and try out ideas.

Pet food product development

All our services are available to support the pet food industry.