High Pressure homogenisation Technology

Handling fluids under high pressure, up to 1,500 bar / 21,750 psi under continuous full-scale operation, is a technology in its own right. This incorporates the disciplines of machine design, strength of materials, and a significant fluid mechanical knowledge, which combines the highest skills in mechanical engineering and more than 50 years of expertise.

Homogenisation is a fluid mechanical process that involves the subdivision of particles or droplets into micron sizes to create a stable dispersion or emulsion for further processing.

This is an important stage in the treatment of food and dairy products. It provides improved product stability, shelf life, digestion, and taste. Homogenising can also significantly reduce the amount of additives required. It prepares feeds so that subsequent spray drying produces the best quality of powders. This is especially important for baby foods and many dairy and food products.

The process occurs in a special homogenising valve, the design of which is the heart of the homogenising equipment. The fluid passes through a minute gap in the homogenising valve. This creates conditions of high turbulence and shear, combined with compression, acceleration, pressure drop, and impact. Causing the disintegration of particles and dispersion throughout the product.

After homogenisation, the particles are of a uniform size, typically from 0.2 to 2 micron, depending on the operating pressure. The homogeniser is the most efficient device for particle and droplet size reduction. The actual properties of the product vary with pressure and product type in a complex relationship. In general, higher processing pressure produces smaller particles, down to a certain limit of micronization.

The patented NanoValve® enables homogenisation in standard milk applications to take place at a lower homogenising pressure through a more efficient valve design for low pressure and a high flow rate application.

This proprietary Niro Soavi technology can also be applied to existing production units in order to improve performance on old machines. A properly designed positive displacement pump is crucial to the homogenisation process. This involves Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Volume Method (FVM) for mechanical structure and fluid mechanical analysis. A constant sourcing of the best stainless steel, high alloy compositions and new ceramic materials enables the incorporation of highly abrasive resistant and durable components.