Optimization of the Plate Heat Exchanger Used for Milk Precooling

Abstract The article deals with the adjustment of the flow rate of milk and water by a plate heat exchanger, which is used for precooling milk. First, measurements of the parameters of the device in the stable were carried out. Subsequently, the plate heat exchanger was measured in the laboratory. Water at 35 °C was used instead of milk. Different flow ratios of cooling water and cooled water (instead of milk) were set. From the measured values, changes in the temperature of cooled water were calculated depending on its flow rate at a constant ratio of cooling water and cooled water. It was found that in the measured range, there are flow values at which temperature change is maximal. This dependence applies to all selected cooling water and cooled water flow ratios: (0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2.). The results show that with the same amount of cooling water, it is possible to achieve greater cooling of milk by 0.7 to 1.6 °C, or to achieve a reduction in water consumption. The device on the farm was modified to allow the flow of milk and cooling water to be changed. The optimal values found were set, and verification measurements were performed. The saving of 4.8% of cooling water was confirmed.