Flocculent application in sugar procesaa

Flocculents

Chemistry

The most common flocculents used for juice clarification is anionic type and the cationic type of flocculent have much more limited use,

Considering the anionic types, the molecule is a combination of acrylamide and sodium acrylate, and an important property is its degree of hydrolysis given by the ratio 100Y/(X+Y) in percentage, where y is the fraction of  -COOH group (or    -COONa) linkages, and X the fraction of –CONH₂  linkages.

Flocculent preparation

Flocculent is prepared as 0.05 to  1 % concentration .

Generally dilution ratio 0.05 gm/kg  for juice Clarification and 1 gm/kg  for Syrup clarification

i.e simply remember  1kg flocculent mixed in 2Tons of water for juice.

The water supply must be of good quality with a pH greater than 8, of low hardness and be less than 50ºC. . General recommendation is used cooled process condensate.

At the time of solution drop from preparation tank to holding tank flocculent molecule will be sheared if the solution is passed through partially open valves. Always ensure in line valves are fully open when in use. Flocculent will become ineffective after 18hrs so fresh solution must be prepared after long process stoppage. The recommended speed of the stirrer in preparation tank is 10-15 rev./min and with an air sparger gives good results.

 

Categories: Clarification