Regenerative Section for Pasteurization Systems

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Regenerative Section

Definition

The Regenerative Section is a critical component within a Continuous Flow Pasteurization System designed to maximize energy efficiency. It functions as a heat recovery zone where the cold, incoming product (e.g., milk, juice) is preheated by the hot, outgoing product that has just been pasteurized. This counter-current heat exchange process significantly reduces the energy required to bring the product up to pasteurization temperature in the subsequent heating section. The section typically consists of a series of plates or tubes made of stainless steel (AISI 316L) with food-grade EPDM gaskets, arranged to facilitate efficient heat transfer. Key parameters include a heat transfer area ranging from 10 to 100 m², a flow rate of 5 to 50 m³/h, and a temperature efficiency of 85 to 95%. The operating temperature range is 4 to 95 °C, and the operating pressure is 1.0 to 1.6 MPa. Pressure drop across the section is typically 20 to 80 kPa, which affects pump sizing and energy consumption. Dimensions vary from 1000 to 3000 mm in length, 500 to 1500 mm in width, and 1000 to 2500 mm in height, with a weight range of 500 to 5000 kg. These values are reference ranges and must be confirmed for the specific model and application. The plate material conforms to ASTM A240 for 316L stainless steel, and the gasket material meets FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 for food contact. The regenerative section is selected based on required flow rate, temperature efficiency, and allowable pressure drop. It interfaces with the heating and cooling sections of the pasteurizer, and its performance directly impacts overall energy consumption. Verification of actual performance and compliance with relevant standards should be conducted with the legal manufacturer or supplier. Maintenance signals include increased pressure drop or reduced temperature efficiency, indicating potential fouling or gasket wear. Failure boundaries are defined by material limits and operating conditions; exceeding specified pressure or temperature can lead to leakage or structural damage.

Working Principle

The section operates on the principle of counter-current heat exchange. Cold, raw product flows in one direction through a series of plates or tubes, while hot, pasteurized product flows in the opposite direction in adjacent channels. Heat transfers from the hot product to the cold product through the separating walls, preheating the incoming stream and simultaneously cooling the outgoing stream for safe storage or filling. This process recovers heat that would otherwise be wasted, reducing the energy demand of the pasteurization system. The efficiency of heat recovery is quantified by the temperature efficiency parameter, typically 85–95% for this component. The design must balance heat transfer area, flow rate, and pressure drop to achieve the desired performance. Proper flow distribution and gasket integrity are essential to prevent cross-contamination and maintain hygienic conditions.

Common Materials

Stainless Steel (AISI 316L)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Heat Transfer Area	10–100 m²	Depends on flow rate and required temperature efficiency
Flow Rate	5–50 m³/h	Higher flow requires larger plates and pressure drop
Temperature Efficiency	85–95 %	Higher efficiency reduces heating/cooling load
Pressure Drop	20–80 kPa	Affects pump sizing and energy consumption
Operating Temperature	4–95 °C	Product inlet and outlet temperatures
Plate Material	316L	Corrosion resistance for food contactASTM A240
Gasket Material	EPDM	Food-grade, temperature resistantFDA 21 CFR 177.2600
Dimensions (L×W×H)	1000–3000×500–1500×1000–2500 mm	Varies with capacity and number of plates
Weight	500–5000 kg	Depends on size and material

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Heat Exchange Plates Part
Provide the surface area for conductive heat transfer between the hot and cold product streams. Corrugated patterns create turbulent flow for efficient heat transfer.

Material: Stainless Steel
Gaskets/Seals Part
Ensure leak-proof separation between the alternating hot and cold product channels within the plate pack.

Material: Food-grade elastomer (e.g., EPDM, Nitrile)
Frame/Support Structure Part
Holds the plate pack under compression and provides structural integrity and mounting points for the section.

Material: Stainless Steel
Inlet/Outlet Ports Part
Connection points for piping to direct the cold product into and the hot product out of the heat exchange channels.

Material: Stainless Steel

Manufacturers of Regenerative Section

Manufacturer profiles associated with Regenerative Section.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 6 September 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a regenerative section in a pasteurizer?

The regenerative section preheats incoming cold product using the heat from outgoing hot product, reducing the energy needed for pasteurization. It also cools the outgoing product, making it ready for storage or filling.

What materials are typically used in the regenerative section?

The plates or tubes are typically made of stainless steel AISI 316L, and the gaskets are made of food-grade EPDM. These materials are chosen for corrosion resistance and food safety.

How does the regenerative section affect energy consumption?

By recovering heat from the hot product, the regenerative section reduces the heating and cooling load on the system, to significant energy savings. The temperature efficiency, typically 85-95%, indicates the effectiveness of heat recovery.

What maintenance is required for the regenerative section?

Regular inspection for fouling or gasket wear is recommended. Increased pressure drop or reduced temperature efficiency may indicate the need for cleaning or gasket replacement. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Up to 10 bar (standard), 16 bar (high-pressure variants)
flow rate:	0.5 to 50 m³/h (depending on plate/configuration)
temperature:	-10°C to 150°C (typical pasteurization range)
slurry concentration:	Up to 40% solids by weight (requires specialized plate design)

Regenerative Section

Product Specifications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards