Glycol Chilling Applications in Dairy Heat Exchangers

Heat Exchangers

The use of heat exchangers in dairy glycol chilling allows for precise low-temperature control, which is critical during rapid cooling to prevent bacterial growth while avoiding freezing.

Rapid Milk Cooling

During dairy processing, milk must be cooled quickly after pasteurization or harvesting. Advantage chillers with glycol loops are known for their precision and reliability, and are often employed in this step. They enable fast and uniform cooling of the milk, ensuring safety and maintaining quality.

Subsequently, controlled chilling is achieved through carefully managed heat removal provided by heat transfer systems. After this, precise temperature control with heat exchangers is necessary to maintain low temperatures, preventing spoilage and ensuring optimal conditions.

Ice Water Generation

In ice water systems for dairy, the heat exchanger is equally important. The control of temperatures influences the creation of near-freezing water without ice formation, directly affecting cooling efficiency. The energy efficiency of heat exchangers, often using glycol as secondary refrigerant, reduces operational costs. Heat exchangers ultimately circulate glycol to produce ice water, delivering effective cooling with their exacting temperature control.

Industry-grade heat exchangers are designed to withstand the demanding environment of dairy plants, where low temperatures and moisture can challenge equipment. These exchangers' durability stands up to the rigorous cleaning chemicals essential for maintaining hygiene standards without compromising integrity.

In dairy production, heat exchangers are more than just equipment; they are central to the science of dairy processing, affecting everything from efficiency and cost-effectiveness to the quality of the final product. Their value in glycol chilling management and energy recovery can't be overstated, making them indispensable in the dairy industry.

Precise Temperature Control

The glycol chilling of dairy products to achieve sub-zero cooling without freezing is another stage where heat exchangers play a key role. Advanced low-temperature transfers performed by these exchangers ensure that products reach the needed conditions without compromising quality or flavor.

Dairy Heat Exchangers
Plate & Frame Exchangers
Compact High-Efficiency Heating & Cooling
  • Up to 10,000 L/h Capacity
  • Regenerative Energy Recovery
  • CIP-Compatible Gaskets
Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger for Yogurt Pasteurization
Shell & Tube Exchangers
Robust for Viscous Milk Flows
  • Custom Tube Configurations
  • High-Pressure Handling
  • Sanitary Tri-Clamp Fittings
Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger for Yogurt Processing
Tube-in-Tube Exchangers
Gentle, Low-Fouling Heat Transfer
  • Coaxial Tube Design
  • Ideal for Pre/Post-Homogenization
  • Fully CIP & 3-A Compliant
Tube-in-Tube Heat Exchanger for Yogurt Incubation
Advantage Chillers
Precision Cooling to 0.5°C
  • Water or Glycol Systems
  • ±0.1°C Temperature Stability
  • Stainless Steel & CIP Ready
Advantage Chillers for Yogurt Cooling

Common FAQs

In the dairy industry, glycol chilling is crucial for managing low temperatures without freezing risks. It ensures precise control during cooling stages like milk storage and process chilling. Glycol chilling is important for safety and quality, directly influencing product freshness. Its impact in temperature management is invaluable, making it essential in dairy processing.


Cleaning a dairy heat exchanger is essential for performance and product safety. Here’s a guide to cleaning a dairy heat exchanger:

  1. Disassemble the Heat Exchanger: Depending on the type (plate or tube), disassemble as needed, following guidelines to access internal surfaces.
  2. Pre-Rinse: Flush with water to remove loose dairy residues.
  3. Use a Cleaning Solution: Prepare a caustic cleaner (e.g., sodium hydroxide) to remove proteins and fats. Circulate for 30-60 minutes.
  4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse with water until clear.
  5. Sanitize: Use a sanitizer like peracetic acid to disinfect. Circulate as specified.
  6. Final Rinse: Flush with potable water.
  7. Inspect: Check for damage and reassemble per instructions.

In dairy glycol chilling, heat exchangers manage temperature by cooling milk or products using glycol without direct contact, or maintaining low levels for storage. They control energy balance, ensuring effective chilling, energy savings, and high-quality dairy products.

In dairy glycol chilling, main heat exchangers include plate-and-frame for efficient cooling, shell-and-tube for robust viscous handling, tube-in-tube for gentle transfer, and Advantage chillers for precise glycol systems. Together, they manage energy balance, ensuring effective chilling, savings, and quality products.

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