SPX FLOW, a leader in ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing solutions, has launched the APV Infusion UHT featuring SteamRecycle, an industry-first solution that recovers and reuses 100 percent of the steam used during the infusion UHT process. It eliminates the need for fresh steam after startup, helping dairy, nutritional beverage and plant-based producers reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 1,000 tons annually (calculated based on 6,000 operating hours per year) and cut water recirculation by up to 33 m³/h compared to traditional Infusion UHT systems. 

The closed-loop system eliminates the need for continuous fresh steam input by using mechanical vapor compressors to recover excess low-pressure steam. It then converts it to high-pressure steam, making it suitable for reuse in the UHT process while still maintaining exceptional product quality. Benefits include: 

• Recycles 100% of steam, cutting energy, resources and emissions: Captures and reuses all steam generated during the infusion process after startup, significantly reducing the need for fresh steam and lowering energy consumption and emissions. It cuts water recirculation by up to 33 m³/h.

• Improves sustainability, carbon neutrality and total cost of ownership: By optimizing steam usage and thermal efficiency, SteamRecycle reduces operating costs and carbon footprint by up to 1,000 tons annually compared to traditional infusion UHT systems.

• Maintains superior infusion UHT product quality: Infusion UHT is renowned for gentle processing, extended run times and exceptional product quality. SteamRecycle preserves these advantages without the typical high-energy consumption.

• Easy equipment integration, proven reliability and fast return on investment: Seamlessly integrates into existing or new APV Infusion UHT systems. SteamRecycle is rigorously tested to deliver stable performance, hygienic design and consistent high-pressure steam (up to 5 bar), while providing payback in approximately four to five years, contingent on local steam and energy costs.   

Gerard Lang, vice president - Process Solutions & Strategy, said, “SPX FLOW understands the challenges dairy, nutritional and plant-based producers face in producing great-tasting products while reducing operating expenses and maintaining sustainability commitments. By recycling steam for greater cost efficiency, producers can continue creating high-quality products and use fewer resources simultaneously. We are proud to introduce the SteamRecycle solution to help our customers looking for sustainable options that help their bottom line meet their business goals.”