MODELLING AND SIMULATION OF THE STERILIZATION PROCESS OF POUCH PACKAGING IN AN ASEPTIC LINE

Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) models were used in this paper to analyze and improve the sterilization process of spouted pouch with a mixture of air and Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) for an aseptic line. In the first part of the work the process of sterilization of spouted pouches has been analyzed using a mixture composed by vaporized hydrogen peroxide and hot sterile air. Simulations allowed reaching the best combination between nozzle position and geometrical shape of output section. In the second part of the work was carried out the simulation of the flow of sterile air in order to obtain the value of flow rate which could ensure the complete removal of the sterilizer with the lowest air consumption. The results obtained ensure a significant reduction of sterile air consumption. Results of simulations have been validated with empirical tests.