Characterization of the superconcentration and granulation steps of a disruptive spray-drying free process for the manufacture of dairy powders

Breakthrough energy savings were recently projected by a spray-dryer free dairy powder manufacturing process based on superconcentration and granulation. The extent of the recirculation rate for granulation, determines performance. In this study, evolution physical properties during granulation was investigated model system (skim milk microfiltrate) using rheological shear-cell techniques. Results demonstrated that leads to development cohesive non-flowing state. transition from concentrate wet regime, manifested as sharp increase in cohesiveness, occurring at around 82% w/w dry matter (DM). Powder addition successful related DM end phase (∼89% DM). Interestingly, laboratory-based shear cell measurements well correlated with amperage mixer used; similar could be applied in-process providing better understanding control product behavior within system.