WO2005036985A1

WO2005036985A1 - Improved nixtamalization method and device and different uses thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2005036985A1
Application number: PCT/MX2004/000078
Authority: WO
Inventors: Carlos Cummings Ibarra; Joaquin Morales Bolio; Fernando Lecuona Rivera; Miguel Gallego Ochoa
Original assignee: Carlos Cummings Ibarra; Joaquin Morales Bolio; Fernando Lecuona Rivera; Miguel Gallego Ochoa
Priority date: 2003-10-22
Filing date: 2004-10-19
Publication date: 2005-04-28
Also published as: MXPA03009659A

Abstract

The invention relates to an improved method and device for the nixtamalisation or baking of food products. The inventive method comprises the following steps: application of a vacuum in order to open the pores of the product that is to be baked; impregnation of the product with water, calcium and microelements under pressure; baking of said product using a high pressure and temperature; and, optionally, vacuum dehydration of same. The aforementioned method is performed in a device comprising a vacuum system, a pressure system and a heating system. According to the invention, the vacuum system is used to produce a vacuum in a container of the heating system in order to open the pores of the product that is to be baked, such that the elements to be absorbed by said product penetrate same by means of osmosis. In this way, the invention is environmentally friendly and provides significant savings in terms of time, water and energy, thereby reducing contaminant waste.

Description

IMPROVED PROCESS AND APPLIANCE FOR NIXTAMALIZATION AND MISCELLANEOUS USES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The main object of the present invention relates to an improved process and apparatus for nixtamalization or cooking of food products, in which very important savings in time, in water and energy consumption, in comparison are achieved with traditional methods, by means of impregnation stages with vacuum and pressure of the product to be treated; cooking of said product with temperature and pressure; dehydration by means of vacuum; These stages are not used before in this field of the industry BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The nixtamalization process of the present invention overcomes the traditional nixtamal processing method, since it has many disadvantages in terms of process time, water consumption and consumption energy, both in LP gas or natural gas, as in electricity. In the traditional nixtamalization process, corn is cooked with water for a period of 45 minutes to 60 minutes, and allowed to stand in a tub for 8 to 16 hours, depending on the hardness of the corn or the quality of which is intended to arrive. At the end of this process, up to 200% of water has been wasted. OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION The aim of the apparatus and process of the present invention is to produce nixtamalization in a reduced total time of approximately 1 hour, completely reducing the waste of water; coupled with a minimum energy consumption, either with LP gas or natural gas and / or electricity. For example, saving LP gas or natural gas is approximately 128% compared to that of the traditional process. Therefore, the objective of this invention is to obtain a very considerable reduction of water, energy and time, thereby overcoming the prior art. In addition, of the benefits in the consumption of water, time and energy, the invention can be considered at the forefront with ecology, since it saves to a great extent the waste of water and the reduction of polluting waste. Another objective of this invention includes the steps of processing and impregnating with vitamins, minerals, enzymes, preservative gums or other required components, which are referred to generically as

"microelements", to the different seeds and foods to be treated, for example: beans, chickpeas, soybeans, etc., as well as the methods of processing vegetables and meats, such as poultry, beef, pork etc., by virtue of which they can be carried out different processes with different combinations of stages such as the following:

• Impregnation: with vacuum and pressure • Cooking: with pressure and temperature • Dehydration or drying: with vacuum and temperature.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The process of the invention essentially comprises the following steps: 1.- Impregnation with vacuum and pressure of the product to be treated. 2.- Cooking, under temperature and pressure, of the same. 3.- Vacuum dehydration of said cooked product; The application of the previous sequence of stages leads to the elaboration of nixtamal or various foods. Overall, with reference to the Flowchart of the process of the invention, (Figure 1), we have that it essentially comprises steps A to F, where each letter corresponds to the following: A. Filling of a cooking equipment with the product to be treated; B. Vacuum application. C. Filling with Water, Lime and Microelements. D. Impregnation and pressure cooking. E. Vacuum Dehydration. F. Product Drainage. End of the process. The apparatus in which the process of the invention is carried out is also novel, and therefore also claimed as property, essentially including a heating system, a vacuum system, and a pressure system. In particular, a nixtamalization process is described below as a modality of the invention, which comprises the following steps: as seen in the Flow Diagram. A.- Filling a cooking equipment with the product to be treated. The nixtamalization process begins by pouring the corn that will be processed, into the cooking equipment, optionally constituted by an Interior Tank, an Annular Space, an External Tank and a Thermal Insulation that together forms a Reactor Autoclave, for which first open a hatch that is located on the top of the lid of said cooking equipment. B.- Production of vacuum. Once the cooking equipment tank is filled with the corn, its valve is closed tightly and vacuum is applied by means of a vacuum pump, so that the pores of the corn open and osmosis penetrate the water, lime and the micro-elements with which the corn is going to be cooked. This part of the process is carried out for a period of time from 0 min to approximately

60 min, the optimum time being from about 0 min to up to about 45 min. C- Filled with water, lime and micro-elements. Once the vacuum application time has elapsed, when a vacuum of about 0 "Hg up to 29.92" Hg has been reached, (0 bar up to 1,013 bar), the water, lime and micro-elements are sucked taking advantage of the vacuum of the Reactor Autoclave, and are deposited within it. D.- Impregnation and pressure cooking. After the water, lime and micro-elements are deposited, the vacuum is broken by manipulating a valve, and instead, the cooking equipment is pressurized at a pressure of from about 0 kg / cm ² to 20 kg / cm ² , the optimum pressure is 0 kg / cm ² up to 6 kg / cm ² . A temperature of around 0 ° C (32 ° F) up to 200 ° C (392 ° F) is also applied, the optimum temperature is around 0 ° C (32 ° F) to approximately 100 ° C (212 ° F) . In the cooking stage the product is kept at constant temperature and pressure, preferably for a time of approximately 0 min. up to approximately 80 min, with an optimal time of around 45 min. E.- Dehydration with vacuum. After the cooking of the product has finished, the temperature is interrupted and a valve is manipulated, closing and opening another valve, and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized by manipulating another valve to once again apply a vacuum from about 0 "Hg to about 29.92" Hg (0 bar to 1,013 bar), for a period of time of about 0 min , up to approximately 40 min, the optimal time is around 5 min at

15 min, by means of this stage the dehydration of the product is obtained. F.- End of the cycle by draining Finally the vacuum is broken, and the highly processed product can be drained by opening a valve. It is a preferred embodiment, the nixtamalization process comprises the following steps: a) introduction of corn into a cooking medium in order to apply vacuum, so that its pores open; b) allow the passage of a mixture of water, lime and microelements into the cooking medium so that the open pores of the corn absorb said mixture; c) subject the mixture of corn, water, lime and microelements, already absorbed in the former, at elevated temperature and pressure for a predetermined time for cooking; and optionally c) dehydrate the corn mixture with vacuum application for a predetermined time; d) remove the drained and dehydrated corn from the cooking medium for later use in the production of flour, dough, tortillas, tortilla chips or other various foods. In another preferred embodiment the nixtamalization process comprises introducing the corn into the cooking medium and then a vacuum application stage. so that the pores of said corn are opened; a mixture of lime water and microelements is passed to the cooking medium so that the open pores of the corn are impregnated with said mixture under pressure; the temperature and pressure for cooking corn is raised; the cooked corn mixture is dehydrated in vacuo and the desired degree of humidity is obtained in order to produce the dehydrated corn according to the characteristics of the application to be given to it. In another even more preferred embodiment, the improved nixtamalization process comprises the following stages: The corn that will be processed into a cooking equipment is introduced, consisting of an Interior Tank, an Annular Space, an External Tank and a Thermal Insulation that in its set we will call Autoclave Reactor.

Once the Reactor Autoclave filled with the corn is found, it is closed tightly, and vacuum is applied in order to open the pores of said corn so that a mixture of water, lime can penetrate through osmosis and micro elements, for a period of time ranging from 0 minutes to 60 minutes; after the necessary time has elapsed, a vacuum is obtained at a pressure of approximately 0 "Hg to about 29.92" Hg (approximately 0 bar to 1,013 bar); by means of the action caused by the vacuum generated with the Reactor Autoclave, a mixture of water, lime and micro elements is sucked and the mixture is stirred with the corn in its container; After the water, lime and micro elements have been deposited, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is pressurized at a pressure of about 0 kg / cm ² to about 20 kg / cm ² ; in order to allow impregnation under pressure of the mixture of water, lime and micro elements, and a temperature of about 0 ° C (32 ° F) to about 200 ° C (392 ° F) is applied; the mixture of the product thus obtained is maintained, under constant temperature and pressure for a period of time from about 0 to about 80 minutes to allow the cooking of the product, manipulating a valve by closing it, and opening another valve, the elevated temperature is decreased and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized to cause a vacuum of from about 0 "

Hg up to approximately 29.92 "Hg (0 bar at 1,013 bar), for an approximate period of time from 0 to 40 minutes to produce dehydration of the product; finally the vacuum is broken by manipulating a valve and the autoclave is depressurized

Reactor, and the product already processed is drained by opening another valve when it has reached the desired humidity for use in a subsequent process according to the product you want to obtain. In a last preferred mode, the nixtamalization process comprises the following stages: the corn that will be processed into a cooking equipment is introduced, consisting of an Interior Tank, an Annular Space, an External Tank and a Thermal Insulation that we will call as a whole Reactor autoclave; Once the Reactor Autoclave is filled with corn and tightly closed, vacuum is applied to it with the purpose of opening the pores of the corn so that a mixture of water, lime and microelements can penetrate through osmosis, over a period of about 7 to about 15 minutes; after the necessary time has elapsed, vacuum is obtained at a pressure of 0 "of

Hg up to approximately 29.92 "of Hg (0 bar up to 1,013 bar); by means of the action caused by the vacuum of the Reactor Autoclave a mixture of water, lime and microelements is suctioned, and the mixture is stirred with the corn; After the lime and microelements have been deposited, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is pressurized at a pressure of about 6 kg / cm ² , in order to allow impregnation under pressure of the mixture of water, lime and microelements and a temperature of about 0 ° C (32 ° F) to about 100 ° C (212 ° F) is applied; the mixture of the product thus obtained is maintained under constant temperature and pressure, for a period of approximately 45 minutes to allow cooking of the product; then the elevated temperature is lowered and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized to cause a vacuum of 0 "Hg to approximately 29.92" Hg (0 bar at 1,013 bar), for a period of time from 5 to 15 minutes to produce dehydration of the product; Finally, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized, and the already processed product is drained for use in a subsequent process according to the product to be obtained. The apparatus of the invention comprises an apparatus for nixtamalization comprising a pressure system; a vacuum system; and a heating system; wherein the vacuum system produces a vacuum in a container of the heating system to open the pores of the product to be cooked, so that the elements to be absorbed in said product penetrate by osmosis. In a further preferred embodiment the improved apparatus for nixtamalization comprises: a vacuum system, a pressure system and a heating system, wherein the vacuum system produces vacuum in a container of the heating system, in order to open the pores of the product that is going to be cooked, so that the elements that are going to be absorbed in said osmosis penetrate product; wherein the pressure system comprises a compressor means, a pressure regulating means to keep the pressure constant, a valve means used to give way to vacuum or pressure, as well as a pressure or vacuum compensating tank means, The vacuum system comprises a pump means for creating vacuum, a liquid storage means for performing the seal in a vacuum pump means, a vacuum storage tank means as well as a valve means for giving way to the vacuum or to the pressure, and the heating system comprises a heating means to produce heat through a heating means to be sent to a cooking medium, a pump means to irrigate the heating means, a means of expanding the heating medium In an even more preferred embodiment, in the improved nixtamalization apparatus, the pressure system additionally comprises a filter means for retaining particles and odors; as well as a pressure measuring means, while the vacuum system additionally comprises a pressure or vacuum compensating tank means; valve means to prevent vacuum leakage, as well as valve means to allow the passage of one-way vacuum in the system, also including drain valve means and a passage valve means for closing the vacuum passage. In this mode, the vacuum system also comprises a valve means to allow the passage of one-way vacuum in the system, and a passage valve means to save the flow of water into the vacuum pump means, as well. as a means to observe the amount of vacuum inside the cooking medium. In this preferred embodiment, the heating system comprises a cooking means in which the food to be treated is processed, valves for divert the heating medium, and relief venting hanging valve means, including a cooking medium where the various foods are processed. Preferably, the heating system comprises a cooking means, consisting of an Inner Tank, an Annular Space, a Tank

Exterior and a Thermal Insulation that as a whole we will call Autoclave Reactor, in the Annular Space is where the heating medium is transmitted, such as hot oil coming from the heater, being connected to the Inner Tank means of electro-pneumatic valves and gate valves to suck the mixture of water, lime and microelements to said

Interior Tank and to drain the product already processed, respectively; a stirring medium that allows the mixture of nixtamal corn or various foods to be moved in the Inner Tank; as well as a solenoid valve means to depressurize the Inner Tank of compressed air. Said heating system also comprises a gate means for filling the Inner Tank with the product to be processed, and the Inner Tank comprises a mechanical seal means of the arrow and a geared motor means to adjust the revolutions of the stirring medium, including a means of arrow that holds the agitation means, as well as a means of overpressure or safety valve to allow the pressurization of compressed air to escape when the air pressure exceeds its working limit, and finally a gate valve means for bleed the air inside the Inner Tank.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 shows a Flowchart of the process of the present invention Figure 2 shows a front view of the pressure system of the present invention; Figure 3 shows a front view of the vacuum system of the present invention; Figure 4 shows a front view of the heating system of the apparatus of the present invention; Figure 5 shows a view of the apparatus of the present invention, which includes the heating system, the vacuum system and the pressure system of Figures 2, 3 and 4. Figure II shows steps A to F of the process of the invention, including, among others, application of vacuum, pressure and temperature In Figures 2 to 5, the reference numbers correspond to the following components of the apparatus of the invention.

1 Cooking medium or autoclave Reactor where the various foods are processed. 2 Compressor, a device used to compress air that in turn pressurizes in the Reactor Autoclave in order to cook the various foods in a very small time and impregnate with water, lime, micro elements, vitamin, enzymes, etc. The various foods.

3 3-way valve 2 positions is used to give way to the vacuum or pressure inside the Reactor Autoclave.

4 Particle retainer filter at the air inlet in the compressor.

5 Pressure regulator to maintain a constant pressure range in the Reactor Autoclave and a condensate vessel to prevent the passage of oil from the compressor to the air circuit. 6 Activated carbon filter with 5 microns mesh to retain small particles and bad odors. Stop valve to prevent positive pressure from entering the system. Check check valve does not allow air to return to the compressor once it has been disconnected, the air is directed in only one direction. Pressure gauge, measuring instrument that allows us to observe the amount of pressure accumulated in the pressure circuit. Pressure or vacuum compensating tank that allows to break the vacuum or the filling of air when it is in a vacuum; It also allows having it as an extra tank of positive air pressure or vacuum, also working to condense water vapor. Level window that allows to observe the amount of water accumulated by the effect of condensation of water vapor. Vacuum pump, an instrument used to vacuum inside the Reactor Autoclave, allows pores to be opened to various foods and subsequently impregnated with compressed air pressure. It also serves to dehydrate various foods and achieve the desired degree of humidity. Check check valve, does not allow the vacuum to escape to the pump once it is disconnected. Bypass valve, which allows closing the vacuum passage accumulated in the Reactor Autoclave. Double check check valve that allows the passage of one-way vacuum in the system. Water storage tank, to perform the seal on the vacuum pump. Note: The pump is a liquid ring and its hermetic seal is water, it allows the impeller to suck the air located in the Reactor Autoclave. Bypass valve necessary to save the flow of water into the vacuum pump. Note: Water is dosed in proportion to the vacuum pump so that it works properly. Tank that serves as a vacuum storage and as a double water vapor condenser. Level peephole, serves to observe the amount of water accumulated by the condensation of water vapor. Vacuometer, an instrument that allows observing the amount of vacuum inside the Reactor Autoclave. Condensed water drain valve. Water tank tank drain valve for vacuum pump seal. Heater that allows the oil to be heated to a certain temperature to send it through a circuit of pipes to the Annular Space of the Reactor Autoclave and cook the various foods. Note: This heater can contain two pipe coils through which the oil passes and is heated by a gas burner, this burner is powered by environmental oxygen that is transmitted to it by a blower that in turn irrigates heat throughout the body Cylindrical heater uniformly heated the two coils. Pump that allows the hot oil to be irrigated through the entire circuit of the thermal transfer system and the Annular Space of the Reactor Autoclave. Oil expansion tank Note: Hot oil increases the volume of its dough as it warms. This tank also serves as a safety means in case the pressure in the pipeline circuit increases. 27 Bypass valves that allow hot oil to be diverted from the Annular Space of the Reactor Autoclave when the cooking stage is finished and you want to dehydrate the product, this hot oil bypass also allows the Reactor Autoclave to cool. Relief venting hanging valve, does not allow a volume of oil to precipitate preventing it from splashing outwards. Valve for the same purpose as the previous point (28). Venting devices that serve to remove the air that may contain the hot oil circuit and relieve pressure in the same circuit. Paddles of agitation, allow to move the mixture of corn, nixtamal or various foods, in order not to agglomerate or stick on the walls of the Tank

Interior of the Reactor Autoclave. Arrow that holds the stirring blades. Mechanical seal of the arrow and gearmotor does not allow pressure or vacuum to escape. Gearmotor allows you to adjust the revolutions per minute of the stirring blades. Electro-pneumatic valve allows to suck the mixture of water, lime and micro elements, etc. to the Reactor Autoclave. Gate valve allows to drain the product already processed. Gate valve that allows air to be purged inside the Space

Cancel the Reactor Autoclave, so that the hot oil is uniform throughout the body of the Reactor Autoclave. Over pressure or safety valve, this valve allows the pressurization of compressed air to escape when the air pressure exceeds its working limit. Gate that allows to fill the Reactor Autoclave with the product to be processed. 40 Electrovalve allows depressurizing the Autoclave Reactor of compressed air.

41 Tank where water, lime and micro elements are mixed.

42 Motor reducer allows moving the agitator of the previous tank 41.

43 Shaker arrow.

44 stirring blades.

45, 46 and 47 Thermo pairs, temperature sensors, used to monitor the product to be processed within the Reactor Autoclave and monitor the oil temperature in the Annular Space of the Reactor Autoclave. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS.

A flowchart of the process of the invention is shown in Figure 1, where each of the letters A to F illustrates the following steps: A. Filling a Reactor Autoclave with the product to be treated; B. Vacuum application. C. Filling with Water, Lime and Microelements. D. Impregnation and pressure cooking. E. Vacuum Dehydration. F. Product Drainage. End of the process.

In Figure 2, the reference signs correspond to the following elements: 1 is a stainless steel Reactor Autoclave, with a caliber from 18 to% of "(303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430). Carbon steel : Safety factor 4. Tare from 0 kg to 300 kg Thickness of the 22-gauge sheet up to 2.54mm Tank container with wrap-around tank with a separation chamber of 3,175 mm to 105 mm (see "up to 4"), attached a flange 6.35 mm to 204 mm ^(1/4 "to 2"), hinged or not, and with filling and drainage ports. Helmets with openings for filling and draining of product that should be 102 mm to 508 mm (4 "to 20"), with central hole for housing mechanical seals that will hold the stirring arrow, upper hull with base for fixing a gear reducer and a system of five holes for tube and valve connections for pressurization and vacuum of the tank with diameters ranging from

13 mm up to 32mm (VP 'up to VA ") Insulation of glass fiber lining tank, mineral wool, refractory partition or sodium silicate, between 2 cm and 20 cm thick. It will also have a coating that can be made of black foil, aluminum or stainless steel Legs for support and support: they can be made of carbon steel, PTR, steel plate, stainless steel (303,

304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430). Note: The Reactor Autoclave may be in a vertical or horizontal position with a spherical body. it is an air compressor with piston head, semi-ellipsoidal, piston (s), diaphragms or vanes; with a power of 1/8 H.P. up to 50 H.P. and a tank storage capacity of 30 liters / min. until

1500 liters / min., (0.7062 CFM up to 52.96 CFM), with a working pressure of 0 kg / cm ² up to 1500 kg / cm ² , (0 Psi up to 21335 Psi), at a working temperature of 0 ° C up to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F) and a Safety Factor 4. Tare from 0 kg / cm ² to 300 kg / cm ² . It is a 3-way valve with 2 positions, of reduced or complete passage, with seats of virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE, ceramic, Teflon, Viton at working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), with a working range of 0 kg / cm ² to 60 kg / cm ² (853 psi) and threaded or flanged ports of 13mm to 102mm ^_(1/2 "to 4"). NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT Flanges ANSÍ 150/300 PN10 / 16, PN25 / 50, with alloy steel and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), Any plastic, monel, hastelloy incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. It is a filter with nylon or stainless steel mesh, whose light path must be between the Oμm and Imm that must be filled with activated carbon

derived from coconut or any wood and a glass manufactured in plastic of any multimeter, aluminum, brass or stainless steel. It is a pressure regulator manufactured in plastic or in any multimeter, or in aluminum, brass or stainless steel, with working range of 0 kg / cm ² to 21 kg / cm ² (0 Psi to 300 Psi), the working temperature is 0 ° C (32 ° F) to 80 ° C (176 ° F), and the nominal flow of compressed air is 2400 liters / min.

(84.74 CFM). It is a condensate vessel with integrated filter with mesh light passage between Oμm and lmm. Nylon or stainless steel, with removal of

particles by ISO-8573, key 5 and key 3, at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), with 13mm threaded ports

25mm (1/2 "to 1"). Type NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT. They are ball valves: reduced or full pass, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Working range from 0 kg / cm ² to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm

(/ ₂ "to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, Flanges ANSÍ 150/300 PN 10/16, PN 25/40 with alloy steel and stainless steel fabrication material (303, 304, 304L , 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. are check valves (check) with rocker arm, piston (straight or inclined seat), tilting, silent type, or any type of regulations with a working range of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² , (0 psi up to 853 psi); threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm. NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT. Working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any plastic, monel hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron.

9 is a pressure gauge with working range of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² (O psi up to 853 psi), the gauge diameter of 25 mm, up to 75 mm is 1 "up to 3", with a rear connection port, lower left or right side, and threaded ports of 3.18 mm up to 25 mm, (1/8 "up to 1"), Type NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, which is submerged in oil or which it's dry.

10 are stainless steel pressure-vacuum compensating tanks with a working pressure of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² , (0 psi up to 853 psi), vacuum 0 "Hg. Up to 29.92" Hg, (0 bar up to 1,013 bar) with tank air storage from 0 liters / min up to 120 liters / min. (0 CFM up to 4.23 CFM). Air displacement the same as above. Working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C, (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Safety factor 4. Tare from 0 kg to 300 kg. 11 are tubular sight glasses made of borosilicate glass (pyrex). Against nuts or valves fastened by screws and bearings of neoprene, nobesto, buna N, Viton, Teflon, kelf, asbestos, with a diameter of 13 mm up to 25 mm, (V "up to 1"), locknuts made of carbon steel, Alloy and stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, cast iron. In Figure 3, the reference signs correspond to the following elements:

12 is a liquid ring vacuum pump, with cylindrical pump housing with external stages, with arrow seals, impeller with radial blades, made of carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, cast iron. Ports from 13mm to 102mm. (Vi "up to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, with ANSÍ 150/300 PN10 / 16 Flanges, PN 25/40 and with carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any plastic Suction from 0 "Hg up to 29.92" Hg (0 bar up to 1,013 bar). are check valves (check) with rocker, piston (straight or inclined seat), tilting, silent type, or any type of regulations with a working range of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² , (0 psi up

853 psi); threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm. NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT. Working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any plastic, monel hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. They are ball valves: reduced or full pass, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Working range from 0 kg / cm ² to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm (Vi "up to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, Flanges ANSY 150/300 PN

10/16, PN 25/40 with alloy steel and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, iron plastic casting. are check valves (check) with rocker, piston (straight or inclined seat), tilting, silent type, or any type of regulations with a working range of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² , (0 psi up 853 psi); threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm. NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT. Working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any plastic, monel hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. Vacuum pump water container, made of PVC, stainless steel, carbon steel, plastics; with capacity of 0 liters to 500 liters or more depending on the size of the machine. With threaded or flanged caps and connection ports from 3 mm to 102 mm, (VP 'up to 4 "), at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 200 ° C, (32 ° F to 392 ° F). Are valves Ball: reduced or full pitch, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). 0 kg / cm ² up to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm (Va "up to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, Flanges ANSÍ 150/300 PN

10/16, PN 25/40 with alloy steel and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, iron plastic casting. They are pressure-vacuum compensating tanks in stainless steel with a working pressure of 0 kg / cm ² up to 60 kg / cm ² , (0 psi up to 853 psi), vacuum from 0 "Hg. To 29.92" Hg, ( 0 bar up to 1,013 bar) with tank air storage from 0 liters / min up to 120 liters / min. (0 CFM up to 4.23 CFM). Air displacement the same as above. Working temperature from 0 ° C to 400 ° C, (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Safety factor 4. Tare from 0 kg to 300 kg. they are glass-level sight glasses made of borosilicate glass (pyrex). Against nuts or valves fastened by screws and bearings of neoprene, nobesto, buna N, Viton, Teflon, kelf, asbestos, with a diameter of 13 mm up to 25 mm, (VP 'up to 1 "), locknuts made of carbon steel, alloy and stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, cast iron. It is a vacuum gauge with a working range of 0 "Hg, up to 29.92" Hg (0 to 1,013 bar). Vacuum gauge diameter is 25 mm, up to 75 mm from 1 "to 3", with rear connection port, lower left or right side, and threaded ports 3.18 mm up to 13 mm, (1/8 "up to 1"), Type

NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT. Immersed in oil or dry. They are ball valves: reduced or full pass, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Working range from 0 kg / cm ² to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm

^_(1/2 "to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, ANSI flanges 150/300 10/16 PN, PN 25/40 with material steelmaking coal, alloy and stainless (303, 304 , 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. They are ball valves: reduced or full pass, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures from 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Working range from 0 kg / cm ² to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm (V ₂ "up to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, Flanges ANSÍ 150/300 PN

10/16, PN 25/40 with carbon steel fabrication material, alloy e stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6th, brass, aluminum, cast iron plastic. Figure 4, the reference signs correspond to the following elements: It is a heater for heating by energy with LP Gas or Natural Gas. Heater for thermal transfer by oil: tank of cylindrical dimensions from 30cm. up to 2m. in diameter, height from 30 cm to 3m; made of stainless steel and alloy carbon (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), aluminum gauge from O. lcm. until l.Ocm. For 2000 BTU up to 6,000,500 BTU (British Thermal Unit). It is a thermal recirculation motor pump: Power of 1/32 HP up to 10

Hp. The mechanical seals must be ceramic, viton or silicone. It is a thermal oil expansion tank, which can be manufactured in carbon, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), with a height of from 30cm to 3m and with a diameter of 30cm. up to 2m. They are valves type gate or blade leaking steel, metal with metal, threaded, flanged or weldable (2 pcs.) Or complete design to withstand high temperatures with 25mm diameter. up to 500mm (1 "up to 20") working temperature from 0 ° C to 600 ° C (32 ° F to 1112 ° F), with polished or encapsulated design and shaft; Carbon steel and stainless steel alloy material (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430), brass, aluminum and cast iron are gate valves or blade leaking steel, metal with metal, threaded, flanged or weldable ( 2 pcs.) Or complete design to withstand high temperatures with 25mm diameter. up to 500mm (1 "up to 20") working temperature from 0 ° C to 600 ° C (32 ° F to 1112 ° F), with polished or encapsulated design and shaft; Carbon steel and alloy steel manufacturing material e stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430), brass, aluminum and cast iron is a metal gate valve with metal: flanged or weldable, with a diameter of 13 mm up to 102mm / z "up to 4") at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 700 ° C (32 ° F to 1292 ° F), made of a carbon steel alloy, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 5430), Aluminum brass, cast iron. It is a metal gate valve with metal: flanged or weldable, with a diameter of 13 mm to 102 mm (V2 "up to 4") at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 700 ° C (32 ° F to 1292 ° F), Made of a carbon steel material, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 5430), brass, aluminum, cast iron. They are vent tubes can be in carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel pipe (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430), in diameter from 1/8 to 4 "(.31cm. To 10.16cm.) Any plastic monel, hatelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. are stirring blades: made of 22 to 1 "caliber blade that can be made of: carbon, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum or cast iron. The length of the pallet will be between 45 cm to 150 m, with a maximum width of 20 cm. It can be like a Archimedes screw. It is a stirring arrow: made of carbon steel, brass, bronze, Nylamid, stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430) cast iron, which can be metal with metal, plastic bearings, rubber, neoprene , armed with brass with plastic or any polymer, truncated by spring or bolts, being able to be metallized in hard chrome, titanium, tungsten carbide. It is a mechanical seal with seats of Bitón, ceramic, bunan, Teflon, silicone urethane, with working pressure of 21 kg / cm ² with vacuum from 0 "Hg to 29.92" Hg. (0 bar to 1,013 bar). They are motorcycle gearboxes with straight, helical gear, worm or stump that can be of parallel collinear arrows, transmission at right angles, with or without flange (spout or copy type) for mounting for various engines. 1: 1 ratios up to 11000: 1 and engine capacities from 1/30 HP up to 10 HP and from 60 rpm to 11000 rpm. carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, aluminum or cast iron. They are simple solenoid or electro-pneumatic 2-way valves with 2 NC or NO positions, solenoid with working voltage of 12 VC (AC), up to 440 VC (AC), 50-60 Hz., diaphragm rod with 13mm diameter up to 76mm ( ¹ _ "up to 3"), at a working temperature of 0 ° C up to 400 ° C (32 ° F up to 752 ° F), and with a carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel manufacturing material (303, 304 , 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, cast iron, can be pneumatic action ball type. It is a butterfly valve, turtle shell or steel blade leaking metal with metal; flanged or weldable with a split body (2 pcs.) or complete, designed to withstand high temperatures, with a diameter of 25mm to 500mm. (1 "up to 20"). Vacuum resistance from 0 "Hg up to 30" Hg at working temperature from 0 ° C up to 400 ° C (32 ° F up to 752 ° F), with disc design and polished or encapsulated shaft: carbon steel fabrication material , alloy and stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, cast iron. They are ball valves: reduced or full pitch, virgin PTFE or reinforced PTFE seats, ceramic, Teflon, viton, at working temperatures of

0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F). Working range from 0 kg / cm ² to 25 kg / cm ² (355 psi), threaded or flanged ports from 13 mm to 102 mm (Va "up to 4"), NPT, PTF, FNPT, BSPP, BSPT, Flanges ANSÍ 150/300 PN 10/16, PN 25 / 40 with alloy steel and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), any monel, hastelloy, incoloy, duplex, 6mo, brass, aluminum, cast iron. It is an over pressure or safety valve: flanged, welded or threaded, with a diameter of 13 mm to 102 mm (VP 'up to 4 "), at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), with a carbon steel material, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), aluminum brass, cast iron.It is a butterfly valve, turtle shell or blade with leaking steel, flanged or weldable with split body (2 pcs.) or complete with ^• design to withstand high temperatures EPDM, BUNAN, Teflon, urethane, viton, silicone, diameter 25mm up to 500mm (1 "up to 20"), with resistance Vacuum from 0 "Hg up to 29.92" Hg (0 bar up to 1,013 bar), pressure resistance from 0 kg / cm ² to 21 kg / cm ² (0 Psi. up to 300 Psi), with working temperature of 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F to 752 ° F), disc design and polished or encapsulated shaft, with a carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430) , aluminum brass, cast iron. They are simple solenoid or electro-pneumatic 2-way valves with 2 NC or NO positions, sol in oi with working voltage of 12 VC (AC), up to 440 VC (AC), 50-60 Hz., diaphragm rod with diameter of 13mm up to 76mm (VP 'up to 3 "), at a working temperature of 0 ° C to 400 ° C (32 ° F up to 752 ° F), and with a carbon steel, alloy and stainless steel manufacturing material (303 , 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum, iron casting, can be pneumatic action ball type. In Figure 5, reference numbers 1 to 40 correspond to the elements described and illustrated in Figures 2 to 4, and where: 41 the micro-element tank made of alloy and stainless carbon steel (303, 304, 304L and 430), its capacity can be 50 liters of water, up to 5000 liters of water, with cover or without cover. 42 are motorcycle gearboxes with straight, helical gear, worm screw or stump that can be of parallel collinear arrows, transmission at right angles, with or without flange (spout or copy type) for mounting for various engines. 1: 1 ratios up to 11000: 1 and engine capacities from 1/30 HP up to 10 HP and from 60 rpm to 11000 rpm. carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, aluminum or cast iron. 43 is a stirring arrow: made of carbon steel, brass, bronze, Nylamid, stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430) cast iron, which can be metal with metal, plastic bearings, rubber, Neoprene, reinforced with brass with plastic or any polymer, truncated by spring or bolts, being able to be metallized in hard chrome, titanium, tungsten carbide. 44 are stirring blades: made of 22 to 1 "caliber sheet that can be made of: carbon, alloy and stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 430), brass, aluminum or cast iron. 45 are thermocouples manufactured in bimetal (micrometer), jok type with threads of VP 'connection up to 1 "(NPT, PTF, FNMT, BSPP, VSPT), manufacture of the support in carbon, bronze, aluminum, copper, stainless steel (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430). 46 they are thermocouples manufactured in bimetal (micrometer), jok type with connection threads of / ₄ "up to 1" (NPT, PTF, FNMT, BSPP, VSPT), manufacture of the support in carbon steel, bronze, aluminum, copper, stainless ( 303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430) 47 are thermocouples manufactured in bimetal (micrometer), jok type with connection threads of VP 'up to 1 "(NPT, PTF, FNMT, BSPP, VSPT), support manufacture in carbon steel, bronze, aluminum, copper, stainless (303, 304, 304L, 316, 316L and 430).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The apparatus and the nixtamalization process as a whole are described below by means of the following examples with reference to the illustrated drawings.

EXAMPLE 1: Nixtamalization process for 500 kg of corn To carry out the nixtamalization procedure of the invention, first the position of the valves (26) must be in the closed position and (27) in the open position, the heater until it produces a temperature of about 0 ° C (32 ° F) to about 70 ° C (158 ° F) inside the Reactor Autoclave, after obtaining the desired temperature, the corn is deposited inside said Reactor Autoclave in an amount of 500 Kg of corn; the geared motor (34) is switched on simultaneously, to operate the agitator (31) inside the Reactor Autoclave at a maximum speed between 1 rpm (revolutions per minute) and 7 rpm; then the valve is put in a vacuum position

(3); and then the vacuum pump (12) is operated until it reaches its vacuum capacity that is about 22.7 "Hg, (0.768 bar) inside the Reactor Autoclave, for a period of time from about 0 min. to approximately 15 min, the vacuum generated opens the pores of corn.This example is carried out above sea level in the City of

Mexico City, by virtue of which the vacuum that can be achieved at this height is 0 "Hg (0 bar) to approximately 22" Hg (0.745 bar), and also in the specific case that the pump used for this example, it is a liquid ring with the option to also use high vacuum and high displacement pumps; that achieve up to 22.7 "of Hg (0.768 bar). In Mexico City, you can use pumps with impellers (vanes) submerged in oil, molecular plungers etc. Then the vacuum pump is stopped and the solenoid is opened (35 ) to allow the mixture of water, lime and micro-elements to pass through, which was previously stirred in its container (41), for a period of 3 minutes at a speed of 350 rpm (revolutions per minute). then the valve (3), is put in a pressure position and the compressor (2) is operated, after the change of position of the aforementioned valve, at this time, the compressed air forces even more to penetrate the mixture into of the open pores of the corn, the working pressure of the equipment is around 6 kg / cm ² , inside the Reactor Autoclave. Thermal transfer will have reached around 100 ° C (212 ° F) inside the Reactor Autoclave, at this constant pressure and temperature, the corn begins to cook for a period of approximately 45 min. , the water remains liquid, without producing water vapor inside the Reactor Autoclave, and this allows the product to cook evenly in a minimum time. After approximately 45 min. the thermal transfer equipment is turned off, and the valve (27) is put in the closed position and the valve (26) is also turned off, then the compressor is turned off, and then the valve (40) is opened, to depressurize the Reactor Autoclave and once done this closes. Once the Autoclave has been depressurized in its entirety

Reactor, the vacuum pump is put into operation, having previously operated the valve (3) to a vacuum position until reaching approximately 22 "Hg (0.745 bar). It works under these conditions until the desired moisture is obtained in the corn, the time ranges from about 0 min to about 15 min, and under this vacuum the corn is dehydrated.Then the vacuum pump is turned off, and a little compressed air is applied, in order to break the vacuum, placing in pressure position the valve (3) The valve (40) is opened in order to verify that in the Reactor Autoclave, there is neither pressure nor vacuum, so that the process is terminated. (36) of drainage located under the body of the Reactor Autoclave, thus draining the product already processed.This example shows us the process in 500 kg of corn, however, this apparatus is not limited to processing only quantities of 500 kg of corn or other foods, since the m machines are manufactured according to the need of the applicant, and can be developed to treat various amounts from about 50 kg or less, up to approximately 10 tons or more, with the same process and equipment, naturally changing the volume of the machine and its components. Temperatures, vacuum, pressure and times are graduated according to various aspects such as: 1. Hardness of corn or other products. 2. The age of the product to be processed after harvesting. 3. The quality at which the final product is intended. 4. If precooked, cooked or overcooked is required. As illustrated in the description above and in the examples, the invention also applies to the processing of a wide variety of food products, such as beans, chickpeas, soybeans, legumes, vegetables and meats, such as: poultry, beef, pig, etc. The terms and expressions that have been used are used as descriptive, but not limiting, so there is no intention that such terms exclude equivalents from the concepts shown and described above, by virtue of which the possibility is contemplated to make modifications within the scope of the process and apparatus of the invention according to the following claims.

Claims

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N E S 1.- An improved nixtamalization process characterized in that it comprises the following stages: a) application of vacuum to open the pores of the corn and impregnating it with water, lime and microelements under pressure. b) high temperature and pressure cooking; and optionally c) vacuum dehydration.

2.- A nixtamalization process characterized in that it comprises the following stages: a) introduction of corn into a cooking medium in order to apply a vacuum so that its pores open; b) allow the passage of a mixture of water, lime and microelements into the cooking medium so that the open pores of the corn absorb said mixture; c) subject the mixture of corn, water, lime and microelements, already absorbed in the former, at elevated temperature and pressure for a predetermined time for cooking; and optionally d) dehydrate the corn mixture with vacuum application for a predetermined time, until the desired humidity is obtained; and e) drain the resulting product, removing nixtamalized and dehydrated corn from the cooking medium for later use in the production of flour, dough, tortillas, tortilla chips or other various foods.

3. The nixtamalization process according to claim

2, where corn is introduced into a cooking medium and then vacuum is applied to open the pores thereof; a mixture of water, lime and microelements is then passed to the cooking medium so that the open pores of the corn are impregnated with said mixture under Pressure; the temperature and pressure for cooking corn is raised; and subsequently the mixture of cooked and nixtamalized corn is dehydrated, the desired degree of humidity is obtained in order to produce the dehydrated corn according to the characteristics of the application to be given to it.

4.- Improved nixtamalization process characterized by the following stages: the corn that will be processed into a cooking equipment, such as a Reactor Autoclave, is introduced; Once the Reactor Autoclave is filled with corn, it is closed tightly, and vacuum is applied with the purpose of opening the pores of said corn so that a mixture of water, lime can penetrate through osmosis and microelements, for a period of time ranging from 0 minutes to 60 minutes; after the necessary time has elapsed, a vacuum is obtained at a pressure of about 0 "Hg to about 29.92" Hg (about 0 bar to 1,013 bar); by means of the action caused by the vacuum generated with the Reactor Autoclave, a mixture of water, lime and microelements is suctioned and a mixture of these is formed with the corn, stirring them; After the water, lime and microelements have been deposited, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is pressurized at a pressure of about 0 kg / cm ² to approximately 20 kg / cm ² in order to allow impregnation under pressure of the mixture of water, lime and microelements, and a temperature of about 0 ° C (32 ° F) to about 200 ° C (392 ° F) is applied; the mixture of the product thus obtained is maintained under constant temperature and pressure for a period of time from about 0 to about 80 minutes to allow the product to cook; the elevated temperature is lowered and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized to cause a vacuum at a pressure from about 0 "Hg to about 29.92" Hg (0 bar at 1,013 bar), for an approximate period of time from 0 to 40 minutes to produce product dehydration; Finally, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized, and the already processed product is drained to a desired humidity for use in a subsequent process according to the product to be obtained.

5. Improved nixtamalization process according to claim 4, wherein the vacuum application time varies from about 7 minutes to about 15 minutes.

6. The improved nixtamalization process of claim 4, wherein the impregnation stage under pressure is carried out at a pressure of approximately 6 kilograms / cm ² .

7. Improved nixtamalization process according to claim 4, wherein the impregnation stage under pressure is carried out at a temperature of approximately 0 ° C (32 ° F) to

100 ° C (212 ° F).

8. The improved nixtamalization process according to claim 4, wherein the cooking step of the product is carried out for a period of approximately 45 minutes; according to the quality and type of corn.

9. The improved nixtamalization process according to claim 4, wherein the vacuum dehydration step is carried out for a time of approximately 5 minutes to 15 minutes.

10.- Improved nixtamalization process characterized by the following stages: the corn that will be processed into a cooking equipment, such as a Reactor Autoclave, is introduced; Once the Reactor Autoclave is filled with corn and tightly closed, vacuum is applied to it with the purpose of opening the pores of the corn so that a mixture of water, oil and microelements can penetrate through osmosis , for a period of time from about 7 to about 15 minutes; after the necessary time has elapsed, vacuum is obtained at a pressure of 0 "Hg to approximately 29.92" Hg (0 bar to 1,013 bar); by means of the action caused by the vacuum of the Reactor Autoclave a mixture of water, lime and microelements is suctioned, and the mixture is stirred with the corn; After the lime and microelements have been deposited, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is pressurized at a pressure of about 6 kg / cm ² , in order to allow impregnation under pressure of the mixture of water, lime and microelements and a temperature of about 0 ° C (32 ° F) is applied to approximately

100 ° C (212 ° F); the mixture of the product thus obtained is maintained under constant temperature and pressure, for a period of approximately 45 minutes to allow cooking of the product; then the elevated temperature is lowered and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized to cause a vacuum of 0 "Hg to approximately 29.92" Hg (0 bar at 1,013 bar) for a period of time from 5 to 15 minutes to produce dehydration of the product; Finally, the vacuum is broken and the Reactor Autoclave is depressurized, and the already processed product is drained for use in a subsequent process according to the product to be obtained.

11.- Improved apparatus for nixtamalization comprising a vacuum system; a pressure system and a heating system; characterized in that the vacuum system produces vacuum in a container of the heating system in order to open the pores of the product to be cooked, so that the elements to be absorbed in said product penetrate by osmosis.

12. Improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 11, wherein the pressure system comprises a compressor means (2), a pressure regulating means (5) to keep the pressure constant, a valve means (3) which It serves to give way to vacuum or pressure, as well as a means of tank (10) pressure or vacuum compensator.

13. Improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 11, wherein the vacuum system comprises a pump means (12) for creating vacuum, a liquid storage means (16) for making the seal in the pump means vacuum, a vacuum storage tank means (18), as well as a valve means (3) to give way to vacuum or pressure.

14. An improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the heating system comprises a heating means (23) for producing heat through a heating means to be sent to a cooking medium (1 ), a pump means (24) for irrigating the heating means and an expansion means (25) of the heating means.

15.- An improved nixtamalization apparatus comprising: a vacuum system, a pressure system and a heating system, characterized in that the vacuum system produces vacuum in a heating system cooking means in order to open the pores of the product to be cooked so that the elements to be absorbed in said product penetrate by osmosis, wherein the pressure system comprises a compressor means (2), a regulating means of pressure (5) to keep the pressure constant, a valve means (3) that serves to give way to vacuum or pressure, as well as a means of pressure or vacuum compensating tank (10), the vacuum system it comprises a pump means (12) for creating vacuum, a liquid storage means (16) for making the seal in a vacuum pump means (12), a vacuum storage tank means (18), as well as a valve means (3) to give way to vacuum or pressure, and the heating system comprises a heating means (23) to produce heat through a heating means to be sent to a cooking medium (1 ), a pump means (24) to irrigate the heating means, an expansion means (25) of the heating means.

16. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the pressure system additionally comprises a filter means (6), to retain particles and odors.

17. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the pressure system comprises a pressure measuring means (9).

18. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the vacuum system additionally comprises a pressure or vacuum compensating tank means (10).

19. An improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the vacuum system comprises valve means to prevent vacuum leakage (13), as well as valve means (15) to allow vacuum passage in One way in the system.

20. An improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the vacuum system comprises drain valve means (21) (22).

21. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the vacuum system comprises a passage valve means (14) for closing the vacuum passage.

22. An improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the vacuum system comprises a valve means (15) to allow the passage of one-way vacuum in the system, and a passage valve means (17) to save the flow of water into the vacuum pump medium (12).

23.- The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the vacuum system comprises means (20) for observing the amount of vacuum inside the cooking medium (1).

24. The improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15 wherein the heating system comprises a means ^"cooking (1) where food is processed to be treated.

25. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises valves (26,27) for diverting the heating medium.

26. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises relief vent valve means (28) (29).

27. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a cooking medium (1), wherein the various foods are processed.

28.- Un. improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a cooking means or Autoclave Reactor, (1), consisting of an Inner Tank, a Space Cancel,. an External Tank and a Thermal Insulation Reactor, in the Annular Space is where the heating medium is transmitted, such as hot oil coming from the heater, means of electropneumatic valves (37) and gate valves (36) being connected to the Annular Space to suck the mixture of water, lime and microelements to the Reactor Autoclave and to drain the product already processed, respectively.

29. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a stirring means (31) that allows the mixture of nixtamal corn or various foods to be moved in the Reactor Autoclave.

30. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating means comprises an electrovalve means (40) for depressurizing the Reactor Autoclave (1) of compressed air.

31. An improved apparatus for nixtamalization according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a gate means (39) for filling the Reactor Autoclave (1) with the product to be processed.

32.- The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the Reactor Autoclave (1) comprises an arrow mechanical seal means (33) and a gearmotor means (34) to adjust the revolutions of the stirring medium (31).

33. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises an arrow means (32) that holds the stirring means (31).

34. An improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a means of overpressure or safety valve (38) to allow the pressurization to escape of compressed air when the air pressure exceeds its working limit.

35. The improved nixtamalization apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the heating system comprises a gate valve means (40) for purging the air inside the Reactor Autoclave (1).