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Tunnel Pasteurizer
Tunnel pasteurizer is a continuous, multi-zone thermal processing machine used to pasteurize packaged products—typically beverages, canned foods, and sauces—after filling and sealing. Its primary purpose is to destroy spoilage microorganisms (yeasts, molds, and vegetative bacteria) and inactivate enzymes to extend shelf life without refrigeration, while preserving product quality.
Unlike batch pasteurizers (e.g., retorts or water baths), tunnel pasteurizers operate continuously, integrating seamlessly into high-speed filling lines.
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- Continuous operation – suitable for high-volume production.
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Consistent thermal treatment – uniform PU application.
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Energy efficient – heat recovery reduces operating costs.
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Gentle on product – avoids overcooking compared to retort sterilization.
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Flexible – handles various container types and sizes with adjustable parameters.
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1. Basic Working Principle
The product, already sealed in its final container (glass bottle, aluminum can, PET bottle, etc.), travels through a horizontal, insulated tunnel on a stainless steel conveyor belt or mat-top chain. Inside, it is subjected to a precisely controlled sequence of sprayed water zones:
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Pre-heating zone – gradual temperature increase to avoid thermal shock.
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Pasteurization zone – holding at target temperature for a set residence time.
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Cooling zone – gradual reduction to near-ambient temperature.
Water is recirculated within each zone, and heat is recovered from the cooling zones to pre-heat incoming products, significantly improving energy efficiency.
2. Control and Monitoring
Modern tunnel pasteurizers are equipped with PLC-based control systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) featuring:
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Real-time temperature monitoring via PT100 sensors in each zone.
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Flow rate control for spray water.
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PU calculation and logging per batch or container.
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Recipe management for different products and container types.
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CIP (Clean-in-Place) capability for internal water circuits and heat exchangers.
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Remote diagnostics and integration with line supervisory systems (SCADA, MES).
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