ST-20 Laboratory-Scale Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) Sterilization System
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Domestic (China) |
| Model | ST-20 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
| Standard Throughput | 20 L/h (adjustable 5–40 L/h) |
| Minimum Batch Volume | 3–5 L |
| Max Sterilization Temp | 150 °C |
| Hold Time Options | 5 s, 15 s, 30 s (at 20 L/h) |
| Fill Temp Range | 20–90 °C |
| SIP Capability | Integrated |
| CIP Flow Rate | 400 L/h |
| Max Operating Pressure | 10 bar |
| Power Supply | 3-phase, 380 V, 10 kW |
| Dimensions (UHT Unit) | 1600 H × 1200 L × 950 W mm |
| CT-20 Aseptic Filling Chamber | HEPA Filtration ≥99.999% @ 0.3 µm, Class 100 (Fed. Std. 209E), 850 × 660 × 2100 mm (L×W×H), 220–240 V / 50 Hz / 0.25 kW |
Overview
The ST-20 Laboratory-Scale Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) Sterilization System is a fully integrated, pilot-scale thermal processing platform engineered for precise simulation of industrial UHT production conditions in R&D and quality assurance laboratories. Based on the principle of direct or indirect heat exchange with precise residence time control, the system subjects fluid products—including dairy beverages, plant-based drinks, juices, soups, and functional formulations—to validated thermal lethality profiles (e.g., F0 or B* values) at temperatures up to 150 °C and hold times as short as 5 seconds. Its modular architecture replicates critical unit operations including preheating, homogenization (optional), sterilization, cooling, and aseptic filling—enabling scalable process development from benchtop formulation to commercial manufacturing without empirical revalidation.
Key Features
- Compact footprint (≤3 m²), mobile design with casters for flexible lab integration
- PID-controlled temperature regulation with ±0.5 °C accuracy across all thermal zones (preheat, sterilize, hold, cool)
- Real-time digital monitoring and adjustment of flow rate (5–40 L/h), temperature, pressure, and hold time via touchscreen HMI or PC-connected software interface
- Integrated hot water generator for steam generation; optional add-ons include chiller unit, in-line homogenizer (pre- or post-sterilization), and sterile filling module
- Full CIP (400 L/h) and SIP capability compliant with hygienic equipment design principles per EHEDG Guideline Doc. 8 and ASME BPE-2022
- Robust 316L stainless-steel wetted parts, sanitary clamp connections (ISO 2852/DIN 11851), and surface finish Ra ≤ 0.8 µm
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ST-20 accommodates Newtonian and non-Newtonian liquids with viscosity up to 5,000 mPa·s (measured at 20 °C), suspended particulates ≤ 3 mm diameter, and pH range 3.0–10.5. It supports formulation screening for emulsifiers, stabilizers, acidulants, and functional ingredients under thermally representative conditions. The system meets core requirements for GLP-compliant shelf-life studies (ASTM F1980, ISO 11133), microbial challenge validation (AOAC 992.07), and regulatory documentation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with audit-trail-enabled software. The CT-20 aseptic chamber satisfies Federal Standard 209E Class 100 (equivalent to ISO 14644-1 Class 5) with certified HEPA filtration (≥99.999% efficiency at 0.3 µm), validated airflow velocity (0.45 ± 0.1 m/s), and positive pressure differential (>12.5 Pa) versus ambient lab space.
Software & Data Management
Control and data acquisition are managed via embedded PLC-based automation with OPC UA connectivity. All process parameters—including temperature traces, pressure logs, flow profiles, and valve status—are timestamped and stored locally with optional cloud backup. Raw data exports to CSV or Excel formats support statistical analysis (e.g., ANOVA, regression modeling) and regulatory submission packages. Electronic signatures, user-level access control (admin/operator/audit), and immutable audit trails comply with ALCOA+ principles and facilitate GMP-aligned validation (IQ/OQ/PQ) and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 readiness.
Applications
- Rapid prototyping of novel beverage formulations under thermally accurate UHT conditions
- Determination of thermal stability, color degradation (browning index), and nutrient retention (e.g., vitamin C, folate)
- Optimization of stabilizer systems (e.g., carrageenan, pectin, gellan gum) for phase separation resistance
- Microbial shelf-life prediction using accelerated challenge testing with Bacillus coagulans, Geobacillus stearothermophilus, or native flora
- Validation of aseptic packaging compatibility (e.g., PET, carton, pouch) through sterile fill trials in the CT-20 chamber
- Training platform for food science curricula and operator certification programs
FAQ
Can the ST-20 replicate HTST (High-Temperature Short-Time) processes in addition to UHT?
Yes—the system’s programmable temperature and residence time profiles allow seamless switching between HTST (e.g., 72 °C/15 s) and UHT (e.g., 137 °C/4 s) modes, supporting comparative thermal kinetics studies.
Is third-party calibration and IQ/OQ documentation available?
Yes—factory-certified calibration certificates (NIST-traceable sensors) and customizable validation protocols (including FAT/SAT reports) are provided upon request.
What utilities are required for full operation including CT-20 chamber?
Compressed air (6–7 bar, oil-free), potable water (for CIP), electrical supply (380 V/3-phase/10 kW for UHT unit; 220–240 V/1-phase/0.25 kW for CT-20), and optional chilled water (if chiller option selected).
Does the system support continuous operation for extended stability trials?
The ST-20 is rated for uninterrupted duty cycles up to 8 hours; for longer-duration studies (e.g., 72-h thermal stress), automated batch sequencing and cooling recovery protocols are configurable.
Are spare parts and technical support available outside China?
Global service network includes regional technical partners in EU, North America, and APAC; critical spares (seals, sensors, valves) are stocked regionally with lead times ≤5 business days.
