SteamRecycle System for UHT Processing
The patented APV® SteamRecycle™ system transforms energy efficiency and sustainability in ultra-high temperature (UHT) processing. It integrates seamlessly with APV® Infusion UHT systems, recycling 100% of vapor generated during the process, cutting operational costs, reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 1,000 tons* annually and helping producers move closer to climate-neutral production while preserving taste and quality.
*calculated based on 6,000 operating hours per year in a 12,000 l/h plant
Cut Energy Costs and Carbon Emissions in Dairy and Plant-Based Production
Transform Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in UHT Processing
Producing premium UHT products requires large volumes of fresh steam, particularly in conventional Infusion UHT systems. The APV® SteamRecycle™ system redefines energy efficiency in Infusion UHT processing by continuously recycling 100% of the steam created during the UHT process. This significantly reduces energy consumption and can lower your facility’s carbon footprint by up to 1,000 tons annually*, while also cutting recirculation water by up to 33 m³/h during production cycles—supporting your path toward climate-neutral production.
With a coefficient of performance (COP) close to 4, the SteamRecycle system delivers up to four times the energy it consumes, setting a new benchmark for sustainable UHT processing and operational efficiency.
* Calculated based on 6,000 operating hours per year in a 12,000 l/h plant.
Seamless Integration and Taste Preservation
SteamRecycle integrates seamlessly with Infusion UHT systems. By converting excess vapor into culinary-grade steam, Infusion UHT featuring SteamRecycle helps producers reduce operating costs while delivering fresh-tasting, premium UHT products. The system supplies stable, high-pressure steam at 4-5 bar ideal for dairy and plant-based applications ensuring consistent processing and flavor preservation. Being fully electric and renewable-ready, SteamRecycle minimizes reliance on conventional energy sources and features a low-maintenance design for long-term, reliable performance.
Maintain Fresh Taste and Cut Costs
Traditional Infusion UHT systems average about 47% steam recovery while indirect tubular UHT systems reach >80%.
SteamRecycle captures and repurposes 100% of steam, helping direct systems match or outperform indirect systems in efficiency while preserving premium product quality.
Theory of Operation
SteamRecycle uses high-speed mechanical vapor compressors with frequency control to capture low-pressure vapor (around 75°C) from the flash vessel. The vapor is compressed to high-pressure, high-temperature steam (to 145+°C at >5 bar) and returned to the infusion chamber, enabling exceptional energy recovery and contributing to its high COP close to 4.
Product Applications
The SteamRecycle system is ideal for energy-conscious producers in:
- Dairy: Milk, cream, flavored milk and ice cream mix
- Plant-based alternatives: Soy, oat, almond drinks and juices
- Specialized nutrition: Infant formula, high-protein drinks, liquid breakfast and liquid baby food
Commit to Sustainability and Efficiency
Built on years of innovation in UHT technology, Infusion UHT featuring SteamRecycle is at the forefront of the future of energy- efficient dairy and plant-based beverage production.
Key Benefits
Lower Operating Costs
- 100% steam recovery eliminates the need for new steam generation and reduces reheating demands.
- Cuts cooling-water recirculation by up to 33 m³/h during production cycles.
- High energy efficiency: COP close to 4, the system delivers up to four times the energy it consumes.
- Typical ROI within 4–5 years, depending on utility rates and production parameters. Actual ROI depends on site-specific utility rates and production parameters.
Smaller Carbon Footprint
- Cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 1,000 tons* annually compared with traditional infusion UHT systems
- Electrically powered and renewable-ready, SteamRecycle minimizes reliance on conventional energy sources
* Calculated based on 6,000 operating hours per year in a 12,000 l/h plant.
Reliable Product Quality
- Supplies culinary-grade steam ideal for dairy and plant-based applications
- Maintains stable, high-pressure steam up to 5 bar for consistent processing and taste preservation
- Built to meet stringent food industry hygiene standards for safety and cleanability
Proven Reliability and Flexibility
- Seamless integration with existing Infusion UHT systems
- Independent operation supports continuous production runs
- Simplified maintenance and robust design minimize downtime
Why Partner with SPX FLOW
SPX FLOW is a global leader in UHT innovation, trusted by leading producers for performance, reliability and support. Our Infusion UHT systems featuring SteamRecycle are rigorously tested, globally supported and built for long production runs with minimal downtime. We help you meet your climate goals without sacrificing product quality, delivering a short return on investment and lower total cost of ownership.