What are Aseptic Storage Tanks?

What are Aseptic Storage Tanks?

Aseptic storage tanks are used to store liquids and viscous products, including dairy products prior to aseptic filling. They are designed to meet the most stringent hygienic requirements for the food and beverage industries and are fully compatible with cleaning-in-place procedures. They are used between UHT and Aseptic filler machines to increase production runs, reduce product loss and increase efficiency.

Aseptic storage tanks are constructed from stainless steel and generally cylindical, vertical, with a dished or conical bottom and fitted with a cooling jacket.  The tanks are designed and tested to perform at a maximum pressure of 3 bar and under full vacuum. The tanks can also be fitted with a bottom mounted agitator if the products have a tendancy to separate.

Prior to the start of the production process the aseptic tank is sterilised using steam at a minimum temperature of 125degC. The tank is then cooled by water circulating through the cooling jacket or coil. At this point sterile air is fed into the tank to prevent vacuum formation and keep the tank under a slight pressure. During production, sterile air fills the tank space above the product level. The pressure is automatically controlled to maintain the feed pressure required by the filling machine in operation.

Aseptic storage tanks are supplied with a valve cluster module with control panel which directs product flow, sterile air, cleaning liquids and steam. During production a steam barrier is applied to protect the product from contamination. After the filling machines, the end vlave cluster prevents reinfection.

We have recently taken into stock two aseptic storage tanks that were used in the beverage industry for further information please click on the link.