Cocoa Nib Alkalising Plant

To change color and pH of cocoa powders, alkalization or “Dutching” can e.g. be done in a batch roaster. Whenever a wider range of colors or even more specific colors or shades (such as bright red, black, etc.) is requested, a reactor system should be the preferred choice. The pressure tight system easily can handle different pro-cess conditions, such as atmospheric, low and high pressures, steam, air or even oxygen injection as well as heavy aeration or vacuum treatment.

The reactor shape and helix of the mixer are especially designed for the processing of sensitive cocoa nibs. Low and in particular high alkalized cocoa nibs are gently mixed.
Different recipes for a wide range of colors and pH values are stored in the control system memory and can be recalled when needed.
The capacity of the FNA plant perfectly matches the Probat FRD/C roaster.

• Longer conical shape of the reactor to support the lifting of the nibs during mixing
• Adjustable flow-breakers and alternating speeds at several process stages can be used to avoid any possible improper mixing of nibs with high moisture contents. Furthermore an optional double-segment mixing helix can noticeable improve the mixing properties.
• Liquid ring seals (dual mechanical seals) can be sup-plied as alternative to standard packing glands, to obtain an increased reliability. This kind of seal should also be preferred when using chemical components such as iron sulfate during the alkalizing process.
• The dome cover can be bolted or welded as per personal preference or philosophy.
• The reactor can be equipped with pivoted flaps for intake and discharge or with pneumatically operated slide gates. Wider slide gates may have the advantage of a larger (free) opening and a better discharge property when processing heavily alkalized, wet and sticky cocoa nibs.