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Click here for the Slurry Viscosity Application Brief PDF                                                                    

Replacing an Inefficient Sparging System to Improve the Spray Bar Process at Extrusion

This pet food producer wanted to improve their process at the spray bar of the extruder and needed to maintain the proper viscosity of the meat slurry. Another main objective was to implement sustainability initiatives per their corporate plan.

At this location, an inefficient sparging system was in use that had trouble holding the proper water temperature. In addition, this system took up a lot of space and wasted energy. This company also needed better temperature control at the extruder for a more consistent product viscosity.

A 1.0 inch EZ Heater® Skid System was installed to produce 195°F water at the spray bars of the extruder. The EZ Heater holds water temperature to within ±0.5°F assuring consistent and proper product quality.

The viscosity of the meat slurry in the extruder produces proper kibbles with moisture levels within process parameters and the EZ Heater saves space. The sparge system took up 4 times as much floor space as the EZ Skid™ and needed more clearance for maintenance work. The company is pleased with the results as they positively affect their sustainability efforts. The energy required at the boiler for steam is 7% less than with the old system and the company is saving over $10,000/yr in energy costs. Also, maintenance at the sparge tank is no longer an issue and the peripheral equipment needs less attention because it is no longer damaged due to steam vibration.

Operating Conditions:

Unlike heat exchangers or spargers, the Hydroheater is designed only for your process conditions and unique application. We need to know a few things about your conditions, such as temperature range, steam pressure, and flow rates to size a heater specifically for you. When you click on our application data sheet and fill in the information, we will contact you within one business day. After an initial conversation with a sales representative or one of our engineers, we will then provide you with a custom quote for the Hydroheater best suited for your process.

Yes, I want to save energy and have more control using direct steam injection. Please complete the Application Data Sheet which helps us understand your process conditions such as fluid density, flow rates and temperature parameters.