Whey Off Balance
Analyzing Processing Issues Using Mass Balances
Author(s)
Abstract
In this case study, students assume the role of a process engineer on a whey refinement process. As the process engineer for the line, students must develop a block diagram of the process, perform a mass balance on each step of the process, and determine any discrepancies between the flow rates they have determined in their mass balances and the theoretical flow rates based on clean, fully-functioning equipment. Students are asked to develop reasons for any flow rate discrepancies found. This scenario is commonly found in industry, as mass balances are routinely used to determine the presence of leaks, the need for cleaning, or faulty equipment. This case study was developed for an upper-level undergraduate food engineering course. It is appropriate for food engineering, food processing, and introductory mass balance courses.
Objectives
- Develop a diagram of a process given written information about it.
- Perform a mass balance on a process when given process data.
- Analyze mass balances to determine if process problems exist.
Keywords
Mass balances; food quality; food science; whey refinement; flow rates; block diagramTopical Areas
N/AEducational Level
Undergraduate upper division, Continuing educationFormat
PDFType / Methods
Analysis (Issues), DiscussionLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Chemical Engineering | Engineering (General) | Food Science / Technology |
Date Posted
7/23/2015Teaching Notes
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