Phase Transition Analyzer
Enables precise mapping of extrusion processes
The Phase Transition Analyzer™ was developed to measure the "controlling" glass (Tg) and melt (Tm) transitions of a complex mixture of biopolymers that often comprise an extruded food or feed product.
The "controlling" Tg and Tm is the temperature at which sufficient amount of sample is softened to allow for particle compaction (Tg) or melted to allow for flow (Tm) through an orifice.
Key Features
- Temperature range: 5 - 200°C
- Heating and cooling rates up to 25°C/min
- Pressure measurement and control up to 210 bar
- Software package to measure and record temperature, pressure and sample movement
- Real-time graphical display of data during testing
- Data analysis software to determine Tg and Tm
- CE compliance
How it Works
The Phase Transition Analyzer is a closed-chamber capillary rheometer, which uses a combination of pressure, temperature, time and moisture to measure the Tg and Tm of a biopolymer. It consists of two sealed chambers, separated by an interchangeable capillary die, that prevents sample moisture loss so testing can be at temperatures far exceeding 100°C. The sample chamber is of fixed volume, and a constant pressure is maintained on the sample throughout the test. The sample movement, which is tracked and recorded during testing, is used to determine the sample’s controlling Tg and Tm.
The Phase Transition Analyzer provides knowledge about the Tg and Tm of a biopolymer that can be directly applied to the extrusion cooking process. When a sample’s Tg and Tm is combined with a mass and energy audit of an extrusion system, it enables an extrusion technologist to accurately map the process – a valuable aid to troubleshooting and better characterization of the extrusion operation. The Phase Transition Analyzer data also has been correlated to important properties of both raw materials and extruded products.
Note: A chilled coolant supply is required to achieve temperatures below room temperature.
Applications In
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Food
Textured vegetable proteins, structured meat analogues, ingredients, protein crisps, breadings, RTE cereals, snacks, hybrid products, and many more
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Pet Food
Traditional kibble, semi-moist, high fresh meat inclusion, treats (long, short, filled, dental) - and flexibility for new products with numerous ingredient options
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Aquatic Feed
Floating, sinking, slow-sinking feeds, Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) feeds, and a wide variety of specialty feeds
Talk to a Product Specialist
to discuss the feasibility, design and implementation for your project