Q1. Identify the types of materials required for fabrication of dairy equipment and explain the reasons for their suitability in dairy processing. Prepare a product flow line diagram for a dairy plant receiving 10,000 litres of milk and manufacturing butter.
- Stainless Steel (SS 304/316) is the primary material for dairy equipment due to its properties.
- SS provides excellent corrosion resistance, hygiene, non-toxicity, and durability vital for dairy processing.
- Food-grade polymers and rubber are utilized for specific components like seals, gaskets, and flexible parts.
- Butter manufacturing involves milk reception, chilling, cream separation, pasteurization, and aging.
Answer: Fabrication of dairy equipment necessitates materials that meet stringent requirements for hygiene, durability, and resistance to corrosion and chemical reactions. The primary material widely adopted in the dairy industry is Stainless Steel (SS), specifically various grades like SS 304 and SS 316. **Materials Required for Fabrication of Dairy Equipment and Their Suitability** Stainless steel, particularly austenitic grades such as SS 304 (18/8 chromium-nickel) and SS 316 (18/10/2 chromium-nic...