What is the primary purpose of a stuffing pump in an HTST system?

The primary purpose of a stuffing pump in a High-Temperature Short-Time (HTST) pasteurization system is to feed the homogenizer consistently. This function is crucial because the homogenizer is responsible for breaking down fat molecules to ensure a uniform product and to help stabilize emulsions. By maintaining a steady and consistent flow of product into the homogenizer, the stuffing pump ensures that the temperature and pressure conditions can be effectively managed throughout the pasteurization process.

Consistency in feeding the homogenizer is essential for achieving uniform texture and quality in the final product, which is particularly important for dairy products like milk and cream. An inconsistent flow could lead to variations in the final product's quality, making the role of the stuffing pump pivotal in the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the HTST system. The pump must operate effectively to maintain the right conditions for the homogenization and subsequent pasteurization steps.