Cascading water Principle - Steriflow autoclave

Each cycle is controlled automatically following the parameters set in the MPI computer system.

• The filled baskets are manually introduced in the STERIFLOW autoclave. Door is manually closed and locked mechanically through a cylinder.
• After a set water make up till process level (or water fill in for the first cycle), the pump is started
• The process water is streamed onto the products with a high water flow. The hydraulic circuit of the process water inside the STERIFLOW autoclave is as following:

the pump – Platular heat exchanger- streaming ramp – cascade on products – suction manifold and filter – pump…

• During the whole cycle the counter pressure is controlled through injection or release of compressed air using two automatic control valves.
• The pump stops. A light signal is triggered to inform cycle is over, allowing the door opening. The STERIFLOW autoclave is unloaded and ready for a new cycle.

Animated principle

The main different phases in a sterilization (or pasteurization) cycle in the Steriflow autoclave

• Heating phase or Come-up Time (CUT):  

Steam inlet, in the primary circuit of heat exchanger is heating the process water till programmed value.

• Holding phase :

Temperature and pressure are stabilized

• Cooling phase :

Cold water is injected in the heat exchanger in order to cool down the process water. Water flow is monitored through an automatic on/off control valve linked to the MPI. The cooling water is not in contact with the products and as such can be used again (in a cooling tower for example).

Each programmed  cycle can be divided into many of these phases

Main advantages of STERIFLOW autoclave process

FOOD SAFETY

• Same treatment of all the products whatever their position or their packing type (cans, glass, pouch, plastic).
• No possibility of re-contamination as cooling is made with sterile water.

PERFORMANCE

• The programmed cycle can be exactly reproduced
• Temperature and pressure ( counter pressure) are really independant.
• Great accuracy of temperature and pressure, thanks to the MPI Controller, for all products and packing (double trays, triple compartments, easy opening, ...) 

MAINTENANCE

• Very low maintenance costs on the autoclave. The heat exchanger is a platular with welded plates ( almost no maintenance compared to plate & gaskets type exchanger). All parts are static , except the pump ( low pressure pump).

ENERGY SAVINGS

• Refer to our page ENERGY AND UTILITIES.