High voltage pulse generator based on TPI-thyratron for pulsed electric field milk processing

Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processing is a non-thermal method of food preservation that uses high-voltage pulses for microbial inactivation and causes less effect on food quality than thermal methods. The crucial component of the modern PEF equipment is a high-voltage pulse generator (HVPG), consisting essentially of high voltage power supply and high voltage switch. Most of HVPG manufacturers deploy solid state switching components, which in most cases are disappointingly expensive. In this report the high-voltage pulse generator based on modified cold-cathode thyratron or pseudospark switch TPI1-10k/50 is described. The generator was built and tested with a pulsed electric field milk processing module, capable of producing up to 400 liters of milk per hour. Comprehensive research and biological tests of the milk quality were accomplished in cooperation with specialized certified laboratories in Belarus. The results confirmed the highest quality of the milk and compatibility of the product to the sanitary regulations. Initial cost of the milk processing module for 400 l/h was $100000. When the module will be commercially available the cost is expected to down 20-30%.