초록 ▼

An apparatus and method for pressure processing a pumpable substance, such as a pumpable food product or slurry. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a pressure vessel having an inlet valve toward one end and outlet valve toward the other end. A flexible bladder is coupled between the inlet and

An apparatus and method for pressure processing a pumpable substance, such as a pumpable food product or slurry. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a pressure vessel having an inlet valve toward one end and outlet valve toward the other end. A flexible bladder is coupled between the inlet and outlet valves for receiving the pumpable substance. The pressure vessel can further include a high-pressure inlet port for receiving high-pressure fluid that biases the membrane inwardly to pressure process the pumpable substance. The pumpable substance is then removed from the vessel through the outlet valve.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [21.]21. An apparatus for pressure processing a pumpable substance, comprising:a generally rigid high-pressure vessel having a vessel wall With first and second openings;a first valve coupled to the first opening and a second valve coupled to the second opening;a liner adjacen

[ What is claimed is:] [21.]21. An apparatus for pressure processing a pumpable substance, comprising:a generally rigid high-pressure vessel having a vessel wall With first and second openings;a first valve coupled to the first opening and a second valve coupled to the second opening;a liner adjacent to the vessel wall;a flexible membrane disposed within the vessel and coupled to the first valve, the membrane having a first membrane opening in fluid communication with the first valve and a second membrane opening in fluid communication with the second valve, at least a portion of the membrane being spaced apart from the vessel wall to pressurize a portion of the pumpable substance adjacent to the membrane;a source of pumpable substance coupled to the first valve; anda source of pressurizing fluid coupled to lie vessel to move the membrane toward and away from the vessel wall, wherein the second valve is only open when the membrane is moved relatively toward the vessel wall.