GEA : optimizes flavor manufacturing

When producing flavors there is much opportunity for something to go wrong. An ingredient added too quickly into a mixing vessel, inconsistent temperature, insufficient mixing or incomplete homogenization can all have an effect further downstream that affects the outcome. Similarly, variations in oil droplet size, shearing or drying parameters can all have an effect that in some subtle way alters the product. All these parameters are critical to producing a consistent product. The process becomes more complex when 300 to 400 different flavors are produced on the same machinery. The control and automation should rule out deviations.

The new GEA integrated line controls all the individual unit operations precisely and, by doing so, controls the output. But repeatability is not just a question of adjusting a computerized control system. Achieving a consistent product also requires very precise engineering to allow the component parts of the line to work together in harmony. For example, feed systems must be calibrated specifically to match the capabilities of the mixer and the size of the mixer must be scaled precisely with the size of the dryer to ensure compatibility.