Aseptic Tank Systems - Storage of Aseptic Products
APV® Aseptic Tank Systems provide reliable, sterile intermediate storage for liquid foods and beverages between thermal processing and packaging. Designed to integrate seamlessly with UHT processing systems, they maintain product integrity and plant flexibility while supporting continuous, high-volume aseptic food processing.
Aseptic Storage for Flexible, Continuous UHT Processing
APV Aseptic Tank Systems act as a buffer between ultra-high temperature processing and aseptic filling, allowing the line to keep running during downstream interruptions or changeovers. They support smooth operations and maintain sterility even during extended holding periods.
Today’s processors face key challenges:
- Avoiding downtime when packaging equipment is offline
- Maintaining sterility in holding tanks
- Managing product changeovers and cleaning without halting production
- Ensuring consistent product quality during intermediate storage
Why APV Aseptic Tank Systems?
Built on decades of thermal processing expertise, APV Aseptic Tanks Systems are engineered for performance and flexibility. They deliver:
- Sterile product storage with double-seat or mixproof valve technology
- Flexible system integration with UHT systems, fillers and CIP/SIP loops
- Extended holding capability without compromising product safety or quality
- Automated pressure control to maintain aseptic conditions during tank filling and emptying
- Modular design options including vertical or horizontal tank configurations
- Custom sizing from 1,000 to 50,000 liters (260 – 13,200 U.S. gal)
- Smooth internal surfaces and hygienic design for easy CIP/SIP cleaning
- Low operating costs through efficient insulation and pressure management
- Pre-assembled and factory-tested for fast, efficient installation
- Available with compliance options including PMO, 3-A, and ASME
- Backed by SPX FLOW’s global service network, including training, preventive maintenance, spare parts and remote diagnostics, ensuring ongoing performance, uptime and ROI.
Distinctive Advantages
SPX FLOW Aseptic Tank Systems are:
- Fully CIP/SIP-compatible for fast, reliable cleaning and sterilization
- Modular and customizable to fit specific process, space and throughput requirements
Applications
- UHT milk, cream and flavored beverages
- Plant-based drinks (oat, soy, almond)
- Juices, nectars and concentrates
- Sauces, soups and dairy desserts
- Nutritional and protein-enriched liquids
Theory of Operation
APV Aseptic Tank Systems operate by maintaining a sterile, pressurized environment for processed liquid products between the UHT system and the filling line. After thermal processing, sterile product enters the aseptic tank via a double-seat valve that prevents contamination.
The system typically includes:
- Inlet/Outlet Valves – Ensure sterile transitions and flow control
- Sterile Air Management – Pressurizes the tank using filtered sterile air or nitrogen
- Level Control – Maintains appropriate product volume for downstream operations
- Temperature Monitoring – Preserves quality and stability during hold times
- CIP/SIP Circuits – Automate cleaning and sterilization to maintain hygiene
This controlled system enables continuous aseptic processing even when packaging lines pause or switch.