A computational study for the effects of sample movement and cavity geometry in industrial scale continuous microwave systems during heating and thawing processes

Summary

Microwave (MW) applications in food processing are used to reduce process time and increase process efficiency. While 915 MHz frequency is dominant for industrial processes, 2450 MHz systems are also observed. Attained temperature uniformity is specific concern with significant effect of the non-uniform electromagnetic field distribution due to the cavity geometry and design. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the cavity geometry effect with applied frequency and to present industrial scale continuous process system with a computational approach. A computational model was developed for heating and thawing processes, and experimental validation was completed in a cylindrical MW cavity. Sample rotational movement and cavity geometry effects (conventional rectangular versus cylindrical, ellipsoidal and triangular) were determined, and industrial scale system designs were presented with frequency effect. Temperature change and electromagnetic field distribution were also introduced for improved design. The results demonstrated improved designs for industrial processes.