Increasing the Homogenization Efficiency of the Jet-Slit Homogenizer of Milk

Abstract

The jet-slit milk homogenizer is one of the most energy-efficient among all types of homogenizers in the dairy industry. The principle of its operation is based on the creation of a maximum speed difference between the fat globules of cream and the flow of skimmed milk. Reducing the specific energy consumption and finding the optimal parameters of the homogenizer were based on the results of both theoretical and experimental studies. The optimization criteria (decreasing specific energy consumption while maintaining high homogenization quality) were chosen to achieve a dispersion of 0.8 μm with minimal energy consumption. The parameters of the width of the ring gap, the fat content and the speed of the cream have been optimized. It is possible to reduce the specific energy intensity of the process to values of 0.88–0.92 kWh/t when using cream with a fat content of 33–43%, which should be fed through an annular gap with a width of 0.6–0.8 mm. Optimum values of the cream feed speed had been found, which should be equal to 7–11 m/s. The research results are of high practical value for the further development of the energy-efficient industrial model of a jet-slit homogenizer.