Sterilization Retorts & Autoclaves
Continuous and batch mixed sterilization system (steam, cascading or pressurized water spray) for canned food in metal, glass, plastic and retort pouches.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Mixed sterilization system (steam, cascade or water spray with or without overpressure) suitable for all container formats (cans, jars, pouches...).
- Process parameterization maximizing duration efficiency while preserving the organoleptic properties of the food product.
- Manufactured entirely in certified AISI-316 and AISI-304 stainless steel following international pressure vessel standards.
DIMENSIONS & CAPACITIES
| Diameter | 1.000 | 2.000 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | From 1.000 to 12.000 | From 2.000 to 14.000 |
| Other sizes on request · Unit: millimetres | ||
PRACTICAL EXAMPLE FOR 8-BASKET RETORT
This example shows theoretical consumptions and production outputs based on cycle times and product sterilization recipes.
| Capacity | 8 baskets (3,500 RR-125 cans per basket at 6 bar) |
|---|---|
| Steam consumption¹ | 1,500 kg/cycle |
| Required steam flow¹ | 4,000 kg/h |
| Air consumption¹ | 19,000 l/cycle |
| Sterilization water consumption¹ | 1.5 m³ per renewal² |
| Cooling water consumption¹ | See table³ |
| Pump electrical power | 12 kW |
| Hydraulic system power | 5.5 kW |
| Cooling time | Cooling tower water temp. | Flow rate | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 minutes | 25º | 40 m³/h | 80 m³ |
| 45 minutes | 25º | 106 m³/h | 80 m³ |
| 20 minutes | 25º | 240 m³/h | 80 m³ |
1) Estimated theoretical ideal values.
2) Retort remnant water. Renewal once per production shift is recommended.
3) Cooling duration is a theoretical figure depending on water flow and cooling tower temperature.
Frequently asked questions
What is an industrial sterilization retort used for?
It is used to sterilize sealed canned food in metal, glass or plastic containers and retort pouches. The TACORE retort uses a mixed system that can work with steam, water cascade or water sprays, with or without overpressure.
How do you choose between steam, cascade or water sprays?
It depends on the product and the type of container, which is why the same retort supports all three modes. The process is parameterised to optimise its duration and keep the organoleptic properties of the product, and the software controls temperature and counterpressure with precision.
What sizes and capacities are available?
There are standard models of 4, 5, 6 and 7 trolleys (the latter in standard, high-capacity and reinforced versions) and a modular or made-to-measure version from 1 to 10 trolleys or more. The diameter goes up to 2,000 mm and the length ranges from 1,000 to 14,000 mm depending on the model; other dimensions are studied per project.
How much steam and water does it consume?
As a theoretical reference, an 8-trolley retort (3,500 RR-125 cans per trolley at 6 bar) consumes about 1,500 kg of steam per cycle, with a steam flow of 4,000 kg/h, 19,000 litres of air per cycle and 1.5 m³ of sterilization water per renewal. Values vary with sterilization time and recipe. TACORE recommends renewing the remaining water once per working day.
Can the F0 value be calculated and the process traced?
Yes. The system can calculate and determine the F0 sterilization value continuously. It also includes a video record that is simultaneous with, and independent of, the PLC, designed for traceability and audits in line with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and it lets you supervise several retorts at once from the same system.
What is it made of and which standards does it follow?
It is built entirely in AISI 304L / 316L stainless steel, in accordance with the main international design codes and with European pressure equipment regulations. The door closes with a floating ring that ensures even contact with the gasket and multiplies its service life.
Need a custom sterilization solution for your plant?
Every retort is engineered and programmed to match your recipes, container formats, and plant production targets.
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