Julia LesererThe new HLI series of HST homogenizers offers many advantages in terms of energy and media efficiency.
HST Maschinenbau GmbH, which has been part of the Krones Group since 2014, can draw upon decades of experience in developing and manufacturing high-pressure homogenizers and piston pumps. These products complement Krones’ process technology portfolio with a key process step for producing milk, milk-based drinks, dairy products, juices, and other foods at all the needed throughput ranges.
In 2019, HST(opens external link in a new tab) successfully launched its most powerful high-pressure homogenizer, the 355-kW HL8, which can handle 55,000 liters per hour at a homogenizing pressure of 200 bar. And now, the HLI series(opens external link in a new tab) has been added to complement the proven HL range. These new 55 to 90-kW systems can process up to 13,000 liters per hour at 200 bar. At launch time, three models are available: HLI55, HLI75, and HLI90, all in the same configurations as the HL series and including an option that fulfils the European Union’s ATEX (Equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres) Directives. Additional models for the lower output range to 45 kW (for instance for 5,000 liters per hour at 200 bar) are currently in development. The systems in the new series each consist of a three-piston high-pressure pump with a homogenizer valve at the outlet.
Lower energy and media consumption
The “I” in HLI stands for “integrated” and underscores the design changes implemented in the new series. A compactly dimensioned drive design eliminates the need for additional units or coolants, which makes for a substantial reduction in operating costs for media and electrical power during production:
In addition, with the right seal system, outstanding service life can be achieved even under critical process conditions like UHT or aseptic. The homogenizer valve has a crucial impact on product quality – and, by way of the homogenizing pressure, on the energy input required:
- The homogenizer valve on the HLI series can be perfectly matched to the required physical stability of UHT dairy products, vegan beverages, desserts, and fruit drinks. As a result, shelf lives of up to twelve months can be achieved without compromising the product’s flavor.
- Optimized flow conditions make it possible to obtain the same product quality at a lower homogenizing pressure.
- Rounding out the HLI series’ ecological profile are minimized, flow-optimized surfaces and a hygienic seal design that enable the new homogenizer valve to achieve top CIP cleaning outcomes with only a small amount of cleaning solution.
Of course, all areas that come into contact with the product are made in accordance with the latest hygiene requirements.
Aseptic option
The HLI series(opens external link in a new tab) can be configured for either aseptic or non-aseptic processing. Homogenization under aseptic conditions is necessary whenever heat treatment (such as UHT) would negatively impact the product’s physical stability. The aseptic models of HST homogenizers use proven technology that entails a series of sterile barriers and can be equipped with high-grade temperature and flow metering capabilities on request. HST Maschinenbau GmbH also offers an option for generating sterile water for all homogenizers, which can reduce energy consumption by more than 90 percent compared with condensate generation.