Steam generator for sterilization of wool

Abstract

The steam in this steam generator for wool sterilisation is most often produced in boilers heated by natural gas or electricity. The steam is distributed through steel pipes, and the operating pressure of the steam at the outlet is regulated as necessary by a pressure regulator. The water in the boiler is chemically treated as necessary to control pH values, mineral deposition and foam formation. Efficiency tests of the use of water steam for sheep wool sterilisation have shown that for optimal steam penetration and effective sterilisation, it is necessary to use steam that must be dry, so that it contains 97% steam (water vapour) and 3% water. In the case of wet steam, that is, one that has less than 97% water vapour, it has been observed that problems of poor heat transfer occur, problems in the process, such as "wet packages", a long-term decrease in system efficiency occurs, and the costs of system maintenance and operation increase.