Food industry

Techno System designs and manufactures plate heat exchangers for the food industry in Italy, serving plant manufacturers and end users. Heating, cooling and thermal treatment of fluids require selection based on product characteristics, temperature control and cleaning procedures.

The process and fluid determine the selection

Assessment requires fluid composition, viscosity at operating temperatures, any particles present, flow rate and required temperatures. Product sensitivity to treatment, changes between recipes and start-up conditions also matter. In pasteurisation processes, the heat exchanger forms part of a plant whose cycle must be defined and verified for the actual product.

Smooth plates, corrugated plates and stainless steel frames

The choice between smooth plates and corrugated plates depends on fluid properties, passage geometry, pressure drops and cleanability. The product family name alone does not establish suitability for a food product.

Stainless steel frame versions include AISI 304 or AISI 316 configurations and features that facilitate cleaning and maintenance, including feet designed for food applications. Frames, plates, connections and gaskets are assessed separately. For components in contact with the product, documentation for the selected configuration must be checked.

Cleaning and temperature control

Selection considers the cleaning method, cleaning agents, concentrations, temperatures and cycle duration. Accessible plates facilitate inspection and maintenance in accordance with the model's instructions. Keeping the process within its intended conditions requires coordination of the heat exchanger, controls, flow rates and availability of the utility fluid.

Design and technical support

Techno System supports customers with sizing and design, 2D or 3D drawings and customised solutions. Provide product and utility circuit data, pressures, allowable pressure drops, installation constraints and documentation requirements. Any tests are agreed according to the project.

Frequently asked questions

Which food fluids can be processed?
Suitability is assessed individually from composition, viscosity, particles and the product's thermal conditions.

Are smooth or corrugated plates preferable?
Thermal performance, available passages, pressure drops and cleaning requirements are compared for the specific process.

How is the heat exchanger cleaned?
The method and cleaning agents must be compatible with materials and gaskets and follow the instructions for the supplied configuration.

Which documentation should be requested?
Specify process and product-contact requirements. Materials, gaskets and applicable documents must be checked during selection.

Describe your process and fluid for a technical assessment.