EP4663282A1

EP4663282A1 - Homogenizer and method for homogenizing a liquid product

Info

Publication number: EP4663282A1
Application number: EP25182326.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Rikard Hansson; Andreas Håkansson
Original assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings and Finance SA
Current assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings and Finance SA
Priority date: 2024-06-15
Filing date: 2025-06-12
Publication date: 2025-12-17
Also published as: WO2025257321A1

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a homogenizer (100) configured to homogenize a liquid product (LP), the homogenizer (100) comprising: a seat (122) and a forcer (123), the forcer (123) being arranged in proximity to the seat (122) to form a gap (130) between the forcer (123) and the seat (122), wherein the gap (130) has an inlet (131) for receiving the liquid product (LP), and an outlet (132) for allowing the liquid product (LP) to exit the gap (130), the outlet (132) of the gap (130) having a first and a second outlet surface (134, 135), preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces (134, 135) are curved surfaces having a continuous, nonplanar geometric surface shape that deviates from a straight line (P2, P3) at least as seen along the flow direction (FD).

Description

Field of invention

The invention relates to a homogenizer.
The invention also relates to a method for homogenizing a liquid product.

Background

Homogenization is an industrial process used in the production of different products, such as liquid food products and pharmaceuticals. Its purpose is typically to create a stable and homogeneous emulsion of at least two generally immiscible elements of which at least one is a liquid.
Milk is an example of a liquid food product that typically benefits from homogenization. In non-homogenized milk, fat molecules tend to clump together, whereafter they due to their lower density rises to the surface of the water fraction and forms a cream layer. To prevent this, or at least slow down the process, a homogenization process is applied.
To homogenize a product, it may at high-pressure be forced through a narrow gap at high velocity, effectively breaking down fat globules into much smaller particles. On average, these fat globules are reduced from approximately 3.5 µm in diameter to below 1 µm. By transforming the fat globules into smaller entities, the process of clumping together and rising to the top layer of the product is delayed, and thereby cream separation is minimized. Beyond this, homogenization yields several other desirable outcomes for milk products. These include reduced susceptibility to fat oxidation, enhanced flavor and mouthfeel, and improved overall product stability.
However, there is a trade-off: the homogenization process demands a significant amount of energy, which increases costs, and which have a negative impact on the environment. Additionally, wear and tear on the homogenizer is a common issue due to the high pressures involved. When designing a homogenizer, careful consideration of part durability is essential to prolong its lifespan.

Summary

It is an object of the invention to provide a homogenizer addressing at least some of the design criteria that the homogenizer should be energy efficient and robust.
This object has been achieved by a homogenizer configured to homogenize a liquid product, the homogenizer comprising:

a seat and a forcer, the forcer being arranged in proximity to the seat to form a gap between the forcer and the seat,
a pump configured to feed a liquid product along a flow direction through the gap to thereby homogenize the liquid product, wherein
the gap has an inlet for receiving the liquid product, and an outlet for allowing the liquid product to exit the gap, the outlet of the gap having a first and a second outlet surface shaped such that the outlet widens up along the flow direction, characterized
in that at least one of the first and the second outlet surfaces has a cross-sectional curve, also referred to as "curved surface(s)", in form of a continuous, non-planar geometric shape that is convex and deviates from a straight line at least as seen along the flow direction.

In one embodiment the at least one, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces, comprises at least one top and/or at least one groove, wherein the at least one top and/or the at least one groove is elevated respectively depressed by at least 0,05 mm from the respective outlet surface.
An obtained advantage by having at least one of the outlet surfaces of the gap being curved and/or comprising one or more tops or grooves is that the homogenization efficiency is optimized due to increased hydrodynamic drag along the outlet surfaces. The hydrodynamic drag causes the liquid product that enters the outlet of the gap to separate from the first or second outlet surface at a later stage relative to a flow of liquid product that enters an outlet of the gap which does not have an outlet surface of the gap being curved and/or comprising one or more tops or grooves. Put in other words, the outlet surfaces of the gap being curved and/or comprising one or more tops or grooves creates a greater wake, compared to the wake a typical straight outlet surface would create. As a result, the gap outlet of the present invention increases pressure drag which leads to a more intense breakage of the fat globules in the stream of liquid that exits the gap which permits a better homogenization efficiency. As the increased drag result in more effective homogenization, it has been realized that the homogenization pressure can be decreased while still maintain a sufficient homogenization result. A reduction of the pressure necessary to provide sufficient homogenization in turn gives a reduction in the power consumption of the homogenizer.
To further explain, the improved disintegration of the original fat globules is achieved through an improved turbulence of the liquid due to the increased hydrodynamic drag. The theory of globule disruption by turbulent eddies is based on the fact that an outlet stream is formed at the outlet of the gap. As the outlet stream is broken up, many small eddies are created. As the eddies hits the fat globules of about the same size, the fat globules will be deformed and break up.
Generally, greater homogenization pressure equals greater stream velocity which in turn creates smaller eddies and more energy-rich eddies, i.e., more forceful turbulence. This theory predicts how the homogenizing effect varies with the homogenizing pressure. However, by designing the homogenizer in accordance with the precent invention there is provided an energy efficient way of improving the homogenization effect. Due to the design of the outlet of the disclosed homogenizer, turbulence in the outlet stream after the gap outlet is more forceful which result in an improved homogenization efficiency compared to known homogenizers.
As used herein, the term "flow direction" refers to a direction of which the liquid product flows through the gap.
An outlet of the homogenizer which comprises at least one outlet surface having at least one top and/or grove of any shape and dimensions may be referred to as a surface structured outlet. The tops and grooves may also be referred to as structural elements.
An outlet of the homogenizer which comprises at least one outlet surface being a curved surface may be referred to as a curved outlet.
In the gap, a boundary layer is formed along the gap surfaces of the forcer and the seat which causes friction drag on the liquid flowing through the gap. Along the gap, the boundary layer grows and a greater part of the stream of liquid is affected by the viscous friction, thus the velocity and the turbulence at the outlet gap are decreased. To maintain high velocity and high turbulence at the gap outlet, it is advantageous to have a shorter gap length to minimize boundary layer growth, and preferably avoid the development of a fully developed flow. If the liquid which flow through the gap reaches its fully developed velocity profile, an increasingly large portion of the flow of liquid will pass in the center of the gap and thereby be more difficult to break up.
Furthermore, when greater liquid product flows are to be homogenized, the gap height is forced to be increased to be able to handle the large flows. Consequently, a portion of the stream may bypass the turbulent area and thereby risk not being sufficiently homogenized.
In an alternative embodiment, the homogenizer may further comprise a flow restricting element facing the outlet of the gap to thereby break up a stream of liquid product coming from a gap into at least two separate streams, the flow restricting element being arranged at a distance from said outlet being at most 20 times the height of the gap. Such a design may e.g., be useful if there is a risk of having a fully developed outlet stream which would introduce the risk that a significant portion is foreseen to bypass the turbulent area. The provision of a flow restricting element may also be used where an even greater turbulence is desired even if there is not foreseen that there is a risk that a significant portion is foreseen to bypass the turbulent area.
It has been realized by the inventors that the flow restricting element may both increase homogenization efficiency due to it causing greater turbulence by forcing the stream to break-up, as well as it increases pressure drag such that turbulence is increased after the wall.
It may be noted that the flow restricting element may be used both as an alternative and as a complement to the provision of the above discussed design where at least one, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces are curved surfaces having a continuous, non-planar geometric surface shape that deviates from a straight line at least as seen along the flow direction, and/or
where at least one, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces, comprises at least one top and/or at least one groove, wherein the at least one top and/or the at least one groove is elevated respectively depressed by at least 0,05 mm from the respective outlet surface.
Still other objectives and technical advantages as well as aspects, features, and embodiments will appear from the following detailed description as well as from the drawings.
The invention may also in short be said to relate to a homogenizer configured to homogenize a liquid product, the homogenizer comprising: a seat and a forcer, the forcer being arranged in proximity to the seat to form a gap between the forcer and the seat, wherein the gap has an inlet for receiving the liquid product, and an outlet for allowing the liquid product to exit the gap, the outlet of the gap having a first and a second outlet surface, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces are curved surfaces having a continuous, non-planar geometric surface shape that deviates from a straight line at least as seen along the flow direction, and/or in that at least one, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces, comprises at least one top and/or at least one groove, wherein the at least one top and/or the at least one groove is elevated respectively depressed by at least 0,05 mm from the respective outlet surface.

Drawings

The invention will by way of example be described in more detail with reference to the appended schematic drawings, which shows a presently preferred embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 1 discloses a schematic perspective view of a homogenizer.
Fig. 2 discloses a schematic perspective view of the homogenizer of Fig. 1, where the interior is visible.
Fig. 3a-b discloses a cross sectional view of the forcer and the seat as known in the art.
Fig. 4 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the first and second outlet surface comprises a plurality of tops.
Fig. 5 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the first and second outlet surface are curved surfaces.
Fig. 6 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the first and second outlet surface comprises a plurality of grooves.
Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the first and second outlet surface comprises an alternative curved surface.
Fig. 9 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap where a flow restricting element is being arranged at a distance from said outlet.
Fig. 10 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the flow restricting element comprises a recess.
Fig. 11 discloses a cross sectional view of a gap, wherein the first and second outlet surfaces comprise a plurality pf tops and where a flow restricting element is being arranged at a distance from said outlet.
Fig. 12 discloses a cross sectional view of a forcer and a seat of one alternative embodiment.
Fig. 13 discloses a more detailed cross sectional view of the forcer and seat of Fig. 11.
Fig. 14-16, discloses charts reflecting the NIZO percentage and the homogenization pressure.
Fig. 17 discloses a flow chart of a method for homogenizing a liquid product.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments

Embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments are shown. Indeed, the subject of the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to disclose some preferred embodiments and also so that this disclosure satisfies applicable legal requirements.
Where possible, any of the advantages, features, functions, devices, and/or operational aspects of any of the embodiments described and/or contemplated herein may be included in any of the other embodiments described and/or contemplated herein, and/or vice versa. In addition, where possible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant to also include the plural form and/or vice versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Accordingly, the terms "a" and/or "an" shall mean "at least one" or "one or more", even though the phrase "one or more" or "at least one" is also used herein. The terms "multiple", "plural" and "plurality" are intended to imply provision of two or more elements. The term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements. Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing the scope of the present disclosure. Such a case would e.g., occur if there is an embodiment where an element previously referred to as first element is omitted and an element previously referred to as second element is the first element introduced for such an embodiment.
Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.
Like reference signs refer to like elements throughout.
Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a homogenizer 100 configured to homogenize a liquid product LP. The homogenizer comprises, as seen in Fig. 1, an inlet damper 113a and an outlet damper 113b, an inlet pipe 114 and an outlet pipe 115.
Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the inside of the homogenizer 100 as shown in Fig. 1.
As shown in Fig. 2, the homogenizer 100 further comprises a motor 110 which drives the pump 111 via transmission belts 112. The pump 111 is configured to pressurize the liquid product LP fed through the inlet pipe 114. The pump 111 may be a piston pump comprising at least one piston, preferably three to five pistons, which runs in a respective cylinder. The rotary motion of the motor 110 is converted into a reciprocating motion in the piston pump. It is to be noted that the pump 111 may be of any other type commonly known in the art.
The inlet pipe 114 leads the liquid product through the pump 111 and to the homogenization arrangement 120. In the homogenization arrangement 120 the liquid product LP is homogenized in at least one homogenization stage. When the liquid product LP has been homogenized the homogenized liquid product LP' is fed through the outlet pipe 115 further into the production system.
The pump 111 will generate a pulsating flow of the liquid product LP. The acceleration and deceleration of the liquid will create a pulsating pressure in the inlet pipe 114 and to avoid cavitation in the pump 111, the inlet damper 113a is located along the inlet pipe 114 to reduce the pulsation. As the pulsation of the pump 111 may cause vibrations and noise, the outlet damper 113b is provided along the outlet pipe 115.
The pump 111 may increase the pressure of the liquid product LP from approximately 300 kPa to a homogenization pressure of 10-25MPa or above. The desired homogenization pressure is dependent on the type of product produced.
The homogenizer 100 may be arranged such that the liquid product LP is homogenized in more than one stage, e.g., two stages. In the first homogenization stage the fat globules are disrupted into much smaller globules. However, the disrupted and significantly smaller fat globules are distributed in the liquid as they both pass through the homogenizer, but the fat globules tend to clump together again after this first homogenization stage. To avoid too much clumping, a second homogenization stage can be added as a complement to the first. It is to be noted that the second stage may, but need not, further reduce the size of the fat globules, as it will still be beneficial if it breaks up the clumps that have been formed and prevent them from clumping together again.
Figs. 3a-b are schematic perspective views of a general homogenization arrangement comprising a seat 122 and a forcer 123 arranged at a distance D1 from each other such that a small gap 130 is formed therebetween. Pressurized liquid product LP is fed from the pump 111 and through a first product channel 121 towards the inlet 131 of the gap 130. The liquid product LP is thereafter fed through the gap 130 towards the outlet 132 of the gap 130 for allowing the liquid product LP to exit the gap 130 and thereby become homogenized. The homogenized liquid product LP' is then feed further into the process through a second product channel 124.
With reference to Figs. 4-10, there is disclosed several alternative embodiments of a homogenizer 100 having a gap 130 comprising an outlet 132, wherein the outlet 132 has different designs. In this disclosure different design options will be initially be disclosed separately as different alternative embodiments. However, it is to be understood that each of these alternative embodiments can be used on their own, or in combination with one or more of the other alternative embodiments shown or otherwise disclosed herein. As one example of such a combination, there is in Fig. 11 shown a combination of three different alternative embodiments. Alternatively expressed it may be said that the embodiment shown in Fig. 11 is one embodiment which involves three design options.
The design of each alternative embodiment enables a greater pressure drag at the outlet 132 of the gap 130. As before mentioned, greater pressure drag equals greater turbulence which result in better homogenization efficiency. The increased pressure drag is caused by designing the gap 130 of the homogenization arrangement 120 such that the hydrodynamic drag along the outlet surfaces 134, 135 is increased and/or by having a flow restricting element 150 which forces the liquid product LP into different streams.
The minimum height D1 of the gap 130, as shown in Figs. 4-11, is preferably within the range of 0,001 mm to 5 mm. It is to be noted that the gap 130 may have different gap heights along the flow direction FD. The minimum gap height D1 is measured between a gap surface 122' of the seat 122 and a gap surface 123' of the forcer 123 at a point where the distance is the smallest.
Where the outlet 132 of the gap 130 is defined to begin depends on the design of the gap 130. In some embodiments, the transition between a respective gap surface 122', 123' and the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135 is a distinct transition, and in another alternative embodiment, the transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135 is a smooth and less distinct transition.
In an embodiment where the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 and the respective gap surfaces 122', 123' are straight surfaces, e.g., as shown in Figs. 4, 6, 9, and 10, and where the respective straight surfaces 122', 123', 134, 135 intersects with a distinct transition, the outlet 132 of the gap 130 begins where the respective outlet surface 134, 135 and the respective gap surfaces 122', 123' intersects.
In another alternative embodiment where the gap 130 of the homogenizer arrangement 120 is designed with a straight first or second outlet surface 134, 135 and a straight respective gap surface 122', 123' and where the transition between the respective outlet surface 134, 135 and the respective gap surface 122', 123' are defined by a small radius, forming a smooth transition, e.g., as shown in Fig. 11, the gap outlet 132 is defined to begin at center point of the radius.
It is to be noted that a straight surface may also include a first or second outlet surface 134, 135 which comprises tops and/or grooves 136, 137 as the outlets surface which the tops and/or grooves protrudes from preferably is a straight surface.
In another alternative embodiment where the at least one, preferably both, of the first and the second outlet surfaces 134,135 are curved surfaces having a continuous, non-planar geometric surface shape that deviates from a straight line P2, P3, at least as seen along the flow direction FD, the gap outlet 132 is defined to begin at a point along the gap 130 where the gap height is 1,5 times greater than the smallest gap height D1 along the flow direction FD.
Similar to defining where the outlet 132 of the gap 130 begins one can define where the gap 130 ends, i.e., where the outlet 132 of the gap 130 ends. The gap 130 may be said to end at a transition between the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135 and a respective surface of the second product channel 124. In Fig. 4, this transition occurs at T3.
Fig. 4 discloses one alternative embodiment of the outlet 132 having a first and a second outlet surface 134, 135, wherein the two outlet surfaces comprise several tops 136.
The first and second outlet surface 134, 135, as shown in Figs. 4 and 6, are angled relative to a respective gap surface 122', 123' of the forcer 123 and the seat 122 with an angle a1 being 45°. However, in another alternative embodiment, the angle a1 may be in the range of 5° to 80°, preferably 10° to 60°.
As shown in Fig. 4, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 and the gap surfaces 122', 123' are straight surfaces and the respective straight surfaces 122', 123', 134, 135 intersects with a distinct transition, thus the outlet 132 of the gap 130 is defined to begin where the respective outlet surface 134, 135 and the respective gap surfaces 122', 123' intersects, e.g., at a first and second intersection point T1, T2 as shown in Fig. 4.
In an embodiment where the outlet is a surface structured outlet, the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 have a first extension D10 projected along the flow direction FD being in the range of 0,1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,2 mm to 20 mm.
In an embodiment where the outlet is a surface structured outlet, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 have a second extension D11 projected along a height direction of the gap 130 being in the range of 0,1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,2 mm to 20 mm. The second direction of the gap 130 is transvers relative to the flow direction FD.
As shown in Fig. 4, each top 136 are equally elevated, i.e., have an equal top height D15, being in the range of 0,05 mm to 2,5 mm, preferably 0,1 mm to 1 mm.
In an embodiment where the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 are distinct surfaces, i.e., it is clear where the tops/grooves 136, 137 intersects with the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135, the height of the top 136, or the depth of the groove 137, can be measured from the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135 to the top of the top 136, or measured from the first or second outlet surface 134, 135 to the bottom of the groove 137.
The embodiment as shown in Fig. 6, comprises a plurality of grooves. The groves are depressed with a depth D15' in the range of 0,05 mm to 2,5 mm, preferably 0,1 mm to 1 mm.
It is to be noted that each top 136 may have a respective top height D15 different from some or all of the other tops 136. Similarly, a surface structured outlet having grooves 137, as seen in Fig 6, may have grooves 137 of the same or of different dimensions. Similarly, a surface structured outlet having both tops 136 and grooves 137, may have tops 136 and grooves 137 of the same or different dimensions.
The height of a top 136 and the depth of a groove 137 can be measured in different ways depending on the design of the structured surface. If the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 are straight surfaces, i.e., distinct surfaces, having tops 136 and/or grooves 137, the height or depth D15 of the structural element can be measured between the top of the respective top 137 or the bottom of the respective groove 137 to the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135. A distinct surface is intended to refer to a surface where it is clear where the tops/grooves 136, 137 intersects with the respective first or second outlet surface 134, 135. If the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 does not form a distinct surface, e.g., if the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 and its respective tops and/or grooves e.g., form a sine curve, the height of the tops 136 and the depth of the grooves can e.g., be measured from a geometrical average plane P1.
Fig. 4 show a geometrical average plane P1 which defines a midline between the top and the bottom of the tops. In another embodiment the geometrical average plane P1 may define a midline between the maximum point of a top and a minimum point of a groove 137. If the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 is a straight surface comprising at least one top 136, the geometrical average plane P1 is located at a distance D14 from first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 being 0,5 times the respective top height D15. This is equally applicable when first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 comprises at least one groove 137, then the geometrical average plane P1 is located at a distance D14' from the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 being 0,5 times the respective groove depth height D15'.
The tops 136, as shown in Figs. 4 and 11, and the grooves 137, as shown in Fig.6, has a first width D18, D18' extending along the respective outlet surface 134, 135 and in a first direction along the flow direction, the first width D18 being in the range of 0,05 mm to 5 mm, preferably 0,2 mm to 2 mm. Alternatively expressed, the first width D18, D18' is measured in a first direction which extends along the respective outlet surface 134, 135 and which is oriented in the same direction as the flow of liquid over said outlet surface 134, 135.
The width of the at least one top and/or the at least one groove may alternatively be measured between the points where the top and/or groove intersects with the geometrical average plane P1. This width is indicated a width D13 in Fig. 4 and is typically relevant in an embodiment where the structural surface comprises tops and/or grooves 136, 137 which together form a smooth wavy shape along the first or second outlet surface 134, 135, resulting in that it is difficult to define where the respective structural element intersects with the respective outlet surface 134, 135.
The tops 136, as shown in Figs. 4 and 11, and the grooves 137, as shown in Fig.6, may have a second width extending in a second direction extending along the respective outlet surface 134, 135, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction, the second width being in the range of 0,05 mm to 5 mm, preferably 0,2 mm to 2 mm. In Fig. 4, the second direction points orthogonal to the plane of the paper.
In another embodiment, the tops 136, as shown in Figs. 4 and 11, and the grooves 137, as shown in Fig.6, respectively, may extend as a continuous or semi-continuous ring along a circumferential extension of the outlet 132. Each such top and/or groove 136, 137 may e.g., form at least 10% of the circumferential extension of the outlet 132. As the seat 122 and the forcer 123 preferably are circular and thus have a circumferential extension so as to form a circumferentially extending outlet 132, the surface structured outlet having at least one top and/or at least one groove 136, 137, may in accordance with one alternative have a top or a groove 136, 137 which extends along the entire circumferential extension of the first or second outlet surface 134, 135.
In the specific example shown in Figs. 4 and 6, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 each comprises two tops 136 or two grooves 137, respectively, arranged one after the other as seen along the first direction along the respective first and second outlet surface 134, 135. The structural elements of an outlet surface 134, 135 may be arranged at a first distance D12, D12' and a second distance D17, D17' relative to each other. The first distance D12, D12' is measured between the respective center of each structural element. The second distance D17, D17' can be measured between two adjacent points of where the structural elements intersect with the respective outlet surface 134, 135, as shown in Figs. 4 and 6, or as discussed above where the structural elements intersect a geometrical average plane P1.
The first structural element which is arranged on the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 is arranged at a distance D19 from a transition between the gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135, the distance D19 being at most 20 times the minimum height D1 of the gap. In this context the label "first" refers to a numbering of the structural element counting from the gap and along the first direction along the respective first and second outlet surface 134, 135.
In Figs. 4, 6 and 11, the structural elements are shaped as knobs, i.e., having a shape of a rounded protuberance, which makes it easy to determine where the structural elements intersect with the respective outlet surface 134, 135. In an alternative embodiment, the tops and/or grooves 136, 137 may have a more wavy shape which intersects with the respective outlet surfaces in a smoother manner, e.g., similar to a sine curve. In such a case, it is not as easy to determine where the structural element intersects with the respective outlet surface 134, 135. Thus, in such an embodiment, the second distance D17, D17' can be measured between two adjacent points of where the structural elements intersect with the geometrical average plane P1. Similarly, the distance D19 from a transition between the gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 can be measured between the transition point and where the first structural element intersects with the geometrical average plane P1.
As the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 136 may comprises a plurality of tops and/or grooves 136, 137 distributed along the first and/or second outlet surfaces 135, 136 in the second direction, and wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, it is to be understood that the distances described above relative to an embodiment having a plurality of structural elements arranged one after the other along the first direction of the respective outlet surface 134, 135 is equally applicable to an embodiment having a plurality of structural elements arranged one after the other in the second direction.
In an embodiment where the at least one top 136 and/or at least one groove 137 have a shape as a rounded protuberance, e.g., as shown in Figs. 4, 6 and 11, the radius D16 of the respective top 136 and/or groove 137 is in the range of 0,01 mm to 5 mm, preferably 0,05 mm to 2 mm. It is to be understood that the range of the radius D16 of the structural elements is dependent on the first width D18 of the least one top 136 and/or the at least one groove 137. The radius D16 of the least one top 136 and/or the at least one groove 137 is consequently 0.5 times the first width D18 of the respective structural element.
With reference to Fig. 5, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 are curved surfaces having a continuous, non-planar geometric surface shape that deviates from a straight line P2, P3 at least as seen along the flow direction FD. In this context continuous is intended to refer to that the surface is continuous and that there are no abrupt steps nor any abrupt changes in the curvature.
The curved surface of the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135, respectively, as shown in Fig.5, has a respective curvature defined by an arc of a circle C1 having a radius R1 being in the range from 0,05 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,1 mm to 5 mm. In the preferred embodiment, the radius of curvature is the same on both the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 but the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 may alternatively have different radius of curvature. As shown in Fig. 8, the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 extends past the walls of the flow channel in which the homogenized product LP' flows. The first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 may in such a case be said to end where the surfaces starts to extend backward relative to the flow direction.
In another embodiment, the curved outlet may have a curved surface which varies along the flow direction FD, as shown in Figs. 7-8. It may be noted that along parts of its extension, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 may also include a straight-line portion.
The curvature of the curved surface of the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135, as shown in Figs. 5, 7, 8 and 11, may be defined through the osculating circle which is typically used to approximate a curve at a specific point. The radius of the osculating circle is the reciprocal of the curvature at that specific point. The radius R1 of the osculating circles which define the curvature at a given point of the curved surface may be in the range from 0,05 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,1 mm to 5 mm. The curvature is equal to 1 divided by the radius R1.
In an embodiment where the outlet 132 is a curved outlet, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 have a first extension D30 projected along the flow direction FD being in the range of 0,01 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,05 mm to 20 mm.
In an embodiment where the outlet 132 is a curved outlet, the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 have a second extension D31 projected in a height direction of the gap 130 being in the range of 0,01 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,05 mm to 20 mm.
In Fig. 5, a straight line P2 is the hypotenuse extending between a third and fourth intersection point T1', T2' and is defined by the first extension D30 and the second extension D31 of the curved outlet. The angle between the straight line P2, P3 and the gap surface 122', 123' is in the range of 5° to 80°, preferably 10° to 60°.
With reference to Fig. 9, a homogenizer 100, and more specifically, the homogenization arrangement 120', comprises a seat 122 and a forcer 123, the forcer 123 being arranged in proximity to the seat 122 to form a gap 130 between the forcer 123 and the seat 122. The gap 130 has an inlet 131 for receiving the liquid product LP, and an outlet 132 for allowing the liquid product LP to exit the gap 130 through the outlet 132. A flow restricting element 150 is arranged such that it faces the outlet 132 of the gap 130. The flow restricting element 150 will break up a stream S of liquid product LP coming from a gap 130 into at least two separate streams S', S". The flow restricting element 150 is being arranged at a distance D40 from said outlet 132 being at most 20 times a minimum height D1 of the gap 130.
The flow restriction element 150, as shown in Figs. 9-10, has an extension D46 in a height direction of the gap 130 and is positioned in the height direction of the gap 130 relative to the gap 130 such that a geometrical projection of the flow restricting element 150 onto the height direction overlaps 100% of the maximum height of the outlet 132 of the gap 130. As shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the flow restriction element 150, as shown in Figs. 9-10, has an extension D46 in a height direction of the gap 130 and is positioned in the height direction of the gap 130 relative to the gap 130 such that a geometrical projection of the flow restricting element 150 onto the height direction overlaps more than 100%, such as e.g., 150% or 200%. This general design with its various variants is typically relevant when the gap 130 is a straight gap having approximately the same height D1 all along the flow direction FD.
However, in another embodiment, e.g., as shown in Fig. 11, the flow restriction element 150 has an extension in a height direction of the gap 130 and is positioned in the height direction of the gap 130 relative to the gap 130 such that a geometrical projection of the flow restricting element 150 onto the height direction overlaps at least 50% of a maximum height of the outlet 132 of the gap 130. This design is typically relevant when the gap 130 is a gap having a first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 flaring outwardly as e.g., shown in Fig. 11, or if a flow restriction element 150 is combined with a first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 flaring outwardly as e.g., shown in Figs.6-8.
It is to be noted that if the gap 130 comprises one or more curved surfaces, as shown in Fig 7, the height direction is defined by the direction of a minimum height.
The flow restriction element 150 may also be defined to have an extension D46 in a height direction of the gap 130 and be positioned in the height direction of the gap 130 relative to the gap 130 such that a geometrical projection of the flow restricting element 150 onto the height direction fully overlaps with the portion of the gap defining the minimum height of the gap 130, as shown in Figs. 9-11. This is automatically fulfilled if the gap 130 is a straight gap having approximately the same height D1 all along the flow direction FD and the flow restriction element 150 overlaps with the gap. However, this additional feature is typically relevant when the gap 130 is widening up along the flow direction FD and the flow restriction element 150 overlaps less than 100% of the gap 130 as measured at the gap outlet.
Preferably, the extension D46 in the height direction of the gap 130 exceeds the minimum height of the outlet 132 of the gap, preferably with at least 15% of the minimum height of the gap 130 at a first side and/or at a second side of the gap 130 as seen along the height direction. The first side of the gap 130 is intended to refer to a portion of the gap 130 which is formed by the forcer 123, and the second side of the gap 130 is intended to refer to a portion of the gap 130 which is formed by the seat 122.
The flow restricting element 150 has an extension D46 along the height direction of the gap 130 in the range of 0,001 mm to 1000 mm, preferably 0,005 mm to 40 mm.
The flow restricting element 150 has a width extension D45 along the flow direction in the range of 1 mm to 100 mm, preferably with one or more of the additional features discussed above concerning overlap with the gap 130, the outlet surfaces 134. 135, and/or the portion of the gap defining the minimum height.
With reference to Fig. 10, the flow restricting element 150 may comprise a recess 151. The recess 151, as shown in Fig, 10, has as seen in a cross-section in a plane defined by the flow direction FD and the height direction of the gap 130 walls and bottom forming a U-shape.
The recess 152 faces the gap 130 and is configured to provide a cushion of liquid product LP. The liquid product LP in the cushion of liquid product LP is comparably low-flow liquid product and improves wear resistance on the restricting element 150.
The recess 151 has a depth D44 along the flow direction FD in the range of 0,1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 0,1 mm to 20 mm, and preferably in the range of 0,1 to 10 times the minimum height D1 of the gap 130.
The recess 151 has a height extension D43 in a height direction of the gap 130 in the range of 0,005 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0,005 mm to 5 mm, and preferably in the range of 0,1 to 10 times the minimum height.
With reference to Fig. 11, an alternative embodiment which comprises a restricting element 150 in combination with an outlet 132 having a first and second outlet surface 134, 135 being both curved and comprising structural elements.
It is to be noted that one alternative embodiment may comprise an outlet 132 which is a curved outlet in combination with being a surface structured outlet. It may also be noted that the first and second outlet surfaces 134, 135 does not need to be of the same kind. It is e.g., possible to have one smooth curved surface without structural elements combined with a surface with structural elements, where the structured surface may be straight or curved.
It is to be noted that one alternative embodiment may be a homogenization arrangement 120 which comprises a restricting element 150 together with a gap 130 having a curved outlet and/or a surface structured outlet.
That is, as indicated above, the various features and variants may be combined basically in any permutation unless they per se are mutually excluding each other.
With reference to Figs. 12-13, an embodiment comprising a restricting element 150 is shown. The flow restricting element 150 is formed by an impact ring 141 configured to guide the at least two separate streams S', S" of liquid product LP towards a common flow path F3. The impact ring 141 is positioned between the housing of the homogenization arrangement 120 and the seat 122 and forcer 123.
The liquid product LP is fed through the first product channel 121 and further through the gap 130. As the liquid product LP exits the gap 130, at least a portion of the liquid product LP impact the restricting element 150 formed by the impact ring 141.
As seen in Figs. 12-13, the impact ring 141 is shaped such that the stream S of liquid product which exits the gap 130 is separated into two separate streams S', S". The impact ring 141 is designed such that the two separate streams S', S" are guided towards a common flow path F3 to form a common stream of homogenized liquid product LP'. As seen in the cross-sectional views in Figs. 12 and 13, one of the flows S" is directed around the cross-section of the impact ring 141 and the other flow S' is directed directly from the flow restricting element 150 towards the intended common flow path F3.
In another embodiment, the impact ring 141 may have another shape such that more than two separate streams are formed.
With reference to Figs. 14-16, three charts that visualize the NIZO value and homogenization pressure is shown. In these charts, the y-axis represents the determined NIZO value, while the x-axis corresponds to the homogenizing pressure applied during the homogenization process for the liquid product LP.
The charts, as shown in Figs. 14-16, shows how the design of the outlet 132 affects the measured NIZO value and homogenization pressure at a constant gap height D1 and a constant flow rate of liquid product LP.
Each chart relates to a different design of the outlet 130 of the homogenizer 100, i.e., a surface structured design, a curved outlet design and a homogenizer comprising a restricting element 150.
Figs. 14-16, show a first graph A-1 which represents the NIZO value of a standard homogenizer.
The NIZO value represents the degree of homogenization in a liquid product LP. It quantifies how well the fat globules are dispersed and stabilized within the liquid product LP. The NIZO value is expressed as a percentage. Higher NIZO values indicate smaller fat globules and better stability. It is essential to achieve the right NIZO value based on the intended shelf life of the product.
In short, the standard NIZO method involves centrifuging a liquid product sample of 25 ml, e.g., milk. The NIZO value is thereafter calculated based on the fat content of the 20 ml at bottom portion of the sample relative to the entire sample, and the ratio is multiplied with 100. As an example, for pasteurized milk, the recommended NIZO value is typically 60% to 70%, and for extended shelf life (ESL) milk, a higher NIZO value around 80% is desirable.
In Fig. 14, a second, third, fourth, and fifth graph A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5 visualize the effect of the outlet design when operating at a constant height D1 of the gap 130 and at a constant flow rate of the liquid product LP. The second, third, fourth, and fifth graph A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, which are shown in the chart in Fig. 14, each represent a gap outlet 132 design which comprises one top 136 on each first and second outlet surface 134, 135. The tops 136 of each gap outlet design are located at a different distance D19 from a transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135. The tops 136 of each outlet design have a rounded protuberance formed by a semi-circle. Each graph A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5, as shown in Fig. 14, represent a respective outlet design and where the radius of the tops 136 is varying. The symbols on each graph A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5 of Fig. 14 represent a specific radius. The symbols of the second, third and fourth graph A-2, A-3, A-4 represents radiuses being 0,0; 1,0; 1,5; 2,0; 2,5; 3,0; 3,5; and 4,0 times the height D1 of the gap 130. The symbols of the fifth graph A-5 represent radiuses being 0,0; 1,0; 1,5; 2,0; 2,5; and 3,0 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
The gap height D1, of the tested gap outlet design as shown in Fig. 14, is 0,07 mm.
The first surface structured outlet design, representing the second graph A-2, has one top 136 located at the beginning of the respective first and second outlet surface 134, 135, i.e., the structural element which is arranged on the first and second outlet surface 134, 135 is arranged at a distance D19 from a transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 being 0 mm.
The second graph A-2 show that the first surface structured outlet design provides better NIZO values at a lower homogenization pressure at a point A-2a where the radius is 1,5 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
It has been realized that with the first surface structured outlet design, improved homogenization performance is achieved when the radius of the respective top is in the range of 1,5 to 4 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
The second surface structured outlet design has tops 136 located at a distance D19 from a transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 being 0,5 times the height D1 of the gap 130. The third graph A-3 show that the second surface structured outlet design provides a significantly better NIZO values at a lower homogenization pressure at a point A-3a where the radius is 2 times the height of the gap 130.
It has been realized that with the second surface structured outlet design, improved homogenization performance is achieved when the radius of the respective top is in the range of 2 to 4 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
The third surface structured outlet design has tops 136 located at a distance D19 from a transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 being equal to the height D1 of the gap 130. The fourth graph A-4 show that the third surface structured outlet design provides a significantly better NIZO values at a lower homogenization pressure at a point A-4a where the radius is 2 times the height of the gap 130.
It has been realized that with the third surface structured outlet design improved homogenization performance is achieved when the radius of the respective top is in the range of 2 to 4 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
The fourth surface structured outlet design has tops 136 located at a distance D19 from a transition between the respective gap surface 122', 123' and the first and/or second outlet surface 134, 135 being 4 times the height D1 of the gap 130. The fifth graph A-5 show that the fourth surface structured outlet design provides a better NIZO values at a lower homogenization pressure at a point A-5a where the radius is 1,5 times the height of the gap 130.
It has been realized that with the fourth surface structured outlet design, improved homogenization performance is achieved when the radius of the respective top is in the range of 1,5 to 3 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
Fig. 15 show a sixth graph A-6 which visualizes how the measured NIZO value and homogenization pressure differs dependent on the design of the curved outlet at a constant flow rate.
The symbols of the sixth graph A-6 represent radiuses being 0,1; 0,2; 0,3; 0,4;0,5; 0,6; 0,7; and 0,8 mm.
The gap height D1 of the tested curved outlets, as visualized in Fig. 15, is 0,07 mm.
As shown in Fig. 15, by increasing the radius, the NIZO value increases. The sixth graph A-6 show that the curved outlet at a point A-6b of the sixth graph A-6 provides a better NIZO value at a lower homogenization pressure. The radius of the curved outlet is at point A-6a of the sixth graph A-6 is 0,2 mm. The sixth graph show that improved homogenization efficiency is at least achieved when the radius of the curved outlet is in the range of 0.2 mm to 0,8 mm, or being 2.9 to 11,4 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
Fig. 16 relates to a homogenization arrangement 120 having a restricting element 150. A seventh graph A-7 relates to how the NIZO value and homogenization pressure varies depending on the distance D40 between the gap outlet and the restricting element 150.
The gap height D1 of the tested curved outlets as visualized in Fig. 16 is 0,07 mm, and the flow rate is constant.
The first point A-7a on the seventh graph A-7 relates to a restricting element 150 being located at a distance of 2 times the gap height D1. The following points on the seventh graph A-7 relates to restricting elements 150 being located at a distance of 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, or 14,29 times the height D1 of the gap 130. The seventh graph A-7, as shown in Fig. 16, show that all distances in the range of 2 to 14,29 times the height D1 of the gap 130 implies a better NIZO value at a lower homogenization pressure compared to the graph A-1 of the standard homogenizer.
With further refence to Fig. 16, an eight graph A-8 is shown. The eight graph A-8 show the effect of varying the height D1 of the gap 130, at constant design i.e., constant distance D40 between the gap outlet 130 and the restricting element 150, and at constant flow rate.
In this alternative embodiment, the distance D40 between the gap outlet 132 and the restricting element 150 is set to be 135 mm.
At a first point A-8a on the eight graph A-8, the gap height D1 is set to be 0,2 mm, and at a last point A-8b on the eight graph A-8, the gap height D1 is set to be 0,04 mm. Thus, the ratio between the distance D40 between the gap outlet 132 and the restricting element 150 and the height D1 of the gap 130 increases.
The eight graph A-8, shown in Fig. 16, show that all gap heights D1 in the range of 0,04 mm to 0,2 mm implies a better NIZO value at a lower homogenization pressure compared to the standard homogenizer.
At the first point A-8a of the eight graph A-8, the NIZO value is approximately 90,5 % and the homogenization pressure is around 4 MPa. This is a significant improvement compared to the first graph A-1 which represents the NIZO value of a standard homogenizer.
The method 200, as shown in Fig. 17, begins with the step of passing 201 the liquid product LP to the homogenizer 100. As the liquid product LP is fed to the homogenizer 100 and the homogenizer is operated 202 such that the liquid product LP is efficiently homogenized.
In one embodiment, with reference to, e.g., Fig. 8, at least one of the first and the second outlet surfaces 134, 135 has a cross-sectional curve C in form of a continuous, non-planar geometric shape that is convex and deviates from a straight line P2 at least, as seen along the flow direction FD.
As used herein, "convex" may refer to a shape or curve for which, for any two points on the shape or curve, a straight line segment connecting the two points lies entirely within or on the boundary of the shape or curve. This implies an overall outward curvature without concave regions when viewed in cross-section. In certain contexts, minor local surface variations may be present, provided they do not materially alter the generally convex character of the curve. It may thus be said that a shape or curve is "convex" if, for any two points on the shape or curve, the straight line segment connecting them lies entirely within or on the boundary of the shape or curve.
In some embodiments, "convex" may refer to shape or curve a geometric shape or curve that, when viewed in cross-section, generally bulges outward such that a straight line segment connecting any two points on the curve lies entirely on or above the curve, allowing for minor local variations such as surface dimples or undulations. These local features do not detract from the overall convex character of the curve, which remains outwardly curved and free of concave inflections when considered in its general form along the flow direction FD.
In a more limited embodiment, "convex" may refer to a continuously outwardly curved shape or curve that is smooth and uniform, with no deviations from the outward curvature across its entire extent as seen in cross-section along the flow direction FD.
As used herein, "flow direction" may refer to the path that the liquid follows as it passes through the gap. This flow direction is determined by the combined shape of the seat and forcer, which together form the gap. The seat and forcer are specifically designed to create the flow path for the liquid, ensuring it moves through the gap in a controlled manner.
As used herein, the "cross-sectional curve" of the surface may refer to the locus of points obtained by intersecting said surface with a plane that is parallel to the flow direction of the homogenized liquid as it passes through the gap formed between the seat and the forcer. This curve delineates the shape and contour of the surface at the intersection, providing a detailed profile of the surface's features and dimensions along the specified plane. In the illustrated examples, the intersecting plane may correspond to the plane formed by the view shown in, for example, Fig. 8. The surface thus extends in the first and second dimension along the cross-sectional curve, and in the third dimension in that is perpendicular to the first and second dimensions (into and out from the plane formed by the view shown in, for example, Fig. 8).
The cross-sectional curve C may have a radius R1 in the range of 1 to 1000 times the height of the gap 130, preferably 2 to 100 times the height D1 of the gap 130. The radius may be at least 2, at least 4, at least 8 times the height D1 of the gap 130.
The cross-sectional curve C may extend in a plane that is parallel to the flow direction FD through the gap 130. The cross-sectional curve C is may be continuously curved. As used herein, "continuously curved" may refer to the curve having an uninterrupted progression without any sharp angles, breaks, or discontinuities, and contains no straight sections. It transitions gradually from one point to another, maintaining a constant and seamless flow, to ensure that the curve has a continuously varying tangent at every point along its length. "Continuously curved" may herein mean that that the curve has a continuously varying tangent at every point along its length. The cross-sectional curve C may be preceded or followed by, for example, sharp angles, breaks, and/or straight sections.
The cross-sectional curve has a length that may be measured along its entire curvature. The length may also be measured from a first point T1 on the cross-sectional curve C where the gap 130 starts to widen, to a second point T2 on the cross-sectional curve C that defines either i) the end of the cross-sectional curve C, or a tangent TG2 on the cross-sectional curve C that is perpendicular to the flow direction FD through the gap 130. The start of the cross-sectional curve C has a tangent TG1. The tangents T1, T2 may, or may not, be perpendicular.
The length of the cross-sectional curve C may be at least 0,2 mm, or at least 0,4 mm, or at least 0,8 mm. The length of the cross-sectional curve C may at least 4 times, or at least 8 times, or at least 20 times the height of the gap 130. In Fig. 8, the horizontal component of the length of the cross-sectional curve C is indicated with reference numeral D30, while the vertical component is indicated with reference numeral D31.
A distance D52 from the base of the cross-sectional curve C to the apex A of the cross-sectional curve C may be at least 0,05 mm, or at least 0,10 mm, or at least 0,40 mm. As used herein, "base" may refer to the straight line formed between the endpoints of the cross-sectional curve. "Apex" may refer to the point on the curve that is at the greatest distance from the base, measured in a direction perpendicular to the base. This means that the apex is the highest point on the cross-sectional curve when viewed from the base. In Fig. 8, the base extends from the first point T1 to the second point T2, having a length indicated by reference numeral D51, while the apex is indicated with reference numeral A.
A distance D52 from the base of the cross-sectional curve C to the apex A of the cross-sectional curve C may be at least 0,8, at least 1,2 times, or at least 4 times the height of the gap 130.
The first surface 134 may be formed by (on) the forcer 123 and the second surface 135 may be formed by (on) the seat 122. The forcer 123 and the seat 122 may have a circumferential extension so as to form a circumferentially extending outlet 132. The gap 130 may have a height D1 (gap height) that extends from the forcer 123 and the seat 122. The gap height D1 may be in the range of 0,001 mm to 5 mm, preferably 0,005 mm to 0,5 mm. As used herein, the height of the gap may refer to the smallest distance between the forcer and the seat. This gap height is crucial for determining the flow characteristics and the efficiency of the homogenization process, as it influences the shear forces applied to the product being processed.
Even though it is preferred that the homogenizer is designed in accordance with the disclosure in the detailed disclosure of preferred embodiments and the appended drawings, it should be noted that a specific preferred embodiment of a specific component does not necessarily have to be combined with a specific embodiment of another component. Thus, advantages associated with a specific embodiment, including one or more features, of a specific component may be accomplished even though the other component(s) is/are designed in accordance with the more general disclosure under the summary of the invention rather than being defined in accordance with the specific embodiment disclosed in the detailed description.
It is contemplated that there are numerous modifications of the embodiments described herein, which are still within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

A homogenizer (100) configured to homogenize a liquid product (LP), the homogenizer (100) comprising:
a seat (122) and a forcer (123), the forcer (123) being arranged in proximity to the seat (122) to form a gap (130) between the forcer (123) and the seat (122),

a pump (111) configured to feed a liquid product (LP) along a flow direction (FD) through the gap (130) to thereby homogenize the liquid product (LP), wherein

the gap (130) has an inlet (131) for receiving the liquid product (LP), and an outlet (132) for allowing the liquid product (LP) to exit the gap (130), the outlet (132) of the gap (130) having a first and a second outlet surface (134, 135) shaped such that the outlet (132) widens up along the flow direction (FD), characterized

in that at least one of the first and the second outlet surfaces (134, 135) has a cross-sectional curve (C) in form of a continuous, non-planar geometric shape that is convex and deviates from a straight line (P2, P3) at least as seen along the flow direction (FD).
The homogenizer (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional curve (C) has a radius (R1) that is at least 1 time, or at least 2 times the height (D1) of the gap (130).
The homogenizer (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cross-sectional curve (C) extends in a plane that is parallel to the flow direction (FD) through the gap (130).
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the cross-sectional curve (C) is continuously curved.
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the cross-sectional curve (C) has a length that is measured along its entire curvature.
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the cross-sectional curve (C) has a length that is measured from
- a first point (T1) on the cross-sectional curve (C) where the gap (130) starts to widen, to

- a second point (T2) on the cross-sectional curve (C) that defines either the end of the cross-sectional curve (C), or
a tangent (TG2) on the cross-sectional curve (C) that is perpendicular to the flow direction (FD) through the gap (130).
The homogenizer (100) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the length of the cross-sectional curve (C) is at least 0,2 mm, or at least 0,4 mm.
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 5-7, wherein the length of the cross-sectional curve (C) is at least 4 times or at least 8 times the height of the gap (130).
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein a distance (D52) from the base of the cross-sectional curve (C) to the apex (A) of the cross-sectional curve (C) is at least 0,05 mm, or is at least 0,10 mm.
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein a distance (D52) from the base of the cross-sectional curve (C) to the apex (A) of the cross-sectional curve (C) is at least 0,8 times, or is at least 1,2 times the height of the gap (130).
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first surface (134) is formed by the forcer (123) and the second surface (135) is formed by the seat (122).
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the forcer (123) and the seat (122) have a circumferential extension so as to form a circumferentially extending outlet (132).
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the gap (130) has a gap height (D1) extending between the forcer (123) and the seat (122), the gap height (D1) being in the range of 0,001 mm to 5 mm, preferably in the range of 0,005 mm to 0,5 mm.
The homogenizer (100) according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein, wherein at least one, preferably both of the first and the second outlet surfaces (134, 135), comprises at least one top (136) and/or at least one groove (137), wherein the at least one top (136) and/or the at least one groove (137) is elevated respectively depressed by at least 0,05 mm from the respective outlet surface (134, 135).
A method (200) for homogenizing a liquid product (LP), the method comprising passing (201) the liquid product (LP) to a homogenizer (100) according to any preceding claims, and
operating (202) the homogenizer (100) such that the liquid product (LP) is homogenized.