gelatin melting tank

Types of Gelatin Melting Tanks

The gelatin melting tank is essential in many food production kitchens where gelatinous or gelatin-bearing dishes and items are prepared. It is designed to hold a constant temperature, which is necessary for keeping the gelatin in a liquefied form while it is being pumped to other areas of the facility or while it is being prepared to be cooled in the cooling tank.

Some common types of melting tanks include the following:

• Jacketed Melting Tanks

  Jacketed melting tanks are equipped with double walls, in which the outer wall serves as the heating element. The heating element can be a coil, electric heating element, or steam running through the outer wall. The heat transferred from the outer wall heats the gelatin inside uniformly. The even distribution of heat ensures that the gelatin does not get burnt or overheated.

• Micro Melting Tanks

  Micro melting tanks are compact units manufactured to hold small batches of food products. There are specific tanks for different types of food products, such as chocolate and cheese. These units are manufactured with precise temperature controls to ensure that the product remains at the correct temperature while being pumped through the facility.

• Slow-Cook Melting Tanks

  Slow-cook melting tanks are manufactured to cook or heat food products at lower temperatures over an extended period of time. These tanks are ideal for melting products such as butter, cheese, and chocolate. Heating elements in the tank may include steam coils or electric elements, and the temperature may be controlled with highly precise digital controls.

• Utility Melting Tanks

  Utility melting tanks are horizontal or vertical stainless steel tanks with insulated walls. They are used for melting fats, oils, and butters in food processing plants. The tanks are equipped with steam coils or hot water jackets for heating. They come with agitating systems to ensure that the melted products are uniform.

• Induction Melting Tanks

  Induction melting tanks heat pots directly using electromagnetic fields. The pots used in induction melting tanks are manufactured with ferrous metal. The pot heats up quickly and evenly, and there is no heat loss. This helps to save energy in food processing facilities.

Specification and maintenance of gelatin melting tanks

Gelatin melting tanks come in many specifications depending on the application. The following are some key specifications for gelatin melting tanks.

• Capacity: The ability of a gelatin melting tank is indicated in liters. Business buyers usually choose tanks with the right volumes according to business needs.
• Materials: Industrial-grade stainless steel gelatin melting tanks are common. Many melting tanks are made of 304 food-grade stainless steel, which is easily sterilized and maintains the quality of the gelatin.
• Temperature Control: Melting tanks are equipped with different temperature control systems. These may include digital controllers, dial gauges, and other temperature control devices. Some melting tanks offer temperature control accuracy within ±1°C.
• Heating Sources: There are melting tanks powered by electricity, hot water, steam, etc.
• Mixer: Some gelatin melting tanks also feature mixing functions. Some melting tanks are equipped with built-in agitators that help maintain the uniformity of melted gelatin. Moreover, the speed of these agitators can be adjustable to meet different processing requirements.

In addition to knowing the specifications, business buyers also need to know how to maintain the gelatin melting tank. The following are some maintenance tips.

• Clean the tank thoroughly after use. Use warm water and detergent to clean the inside and outside of the tank. Ensure all residues are cleaned to prevent contamination or damage to the tank.
• Check if the temperature control device works. Ensure the accuracy and stability of the temperature by frequently calibrating and inspecting the temperature control device.
• Avoid putting too heavy items into the tank to prevent deformation or damage.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools when cleaning the tank to prevent scratching or damaging the surface.
• Periodically lubric the moving parts, such as agitator shafts, to keep them operating smoothly.
• Ensure power supply and connections are secure and reliable, avoiding overloading or using incompatible power sources.

Applications of Gelatin Melting Tanks

Gelatin melting tanks are beneficial for the food sector and various industries for numerous applications such as the following ones:

• Marshmallows: Food enterprises use melting tanks to produce marshmallows, which have a significant gelatin component. The melting tanks ensure that the gelatin is completely liquefied and blended with other ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, flavorings, and water. Additionally, when the marshmallow mixture is heated, the melting tanks help remove air bubbles from the mixture, creating a product that is smooth and not chewy. The equipment can hold the mixture at a certain temperature until other processes are used to complete the production.
• Gummy Bears production: Melting tanks for gelatin can also be used when producing gummy bears. Food enterprises can melt the gelatin using these tanks and mix it with other ingredients like fruit extracts, sugar, and water. The tanks ensure that the mixture has the right consistency before being molded and cooled.
• Gelatin-based Soups and Broths: Besides sweets, gelatin is also used in savory products. For instance, some broths and soups contain gelatin to improve flavor and mouthfeel. Gelatin melting tanks can be used to melt and incorporate the gelatin into the broth or soup together with other ingredients. As a result, the final product has a rich flavor and a pleasing texture.
• Meat Products: Gelatin melting tanks can also be used in processing meat products. Some meat products like sausages, terrines, and pates contain gelatin as an ingredient. Gelatin helps stabilize the emulsions and preserve the meat's texture. Furthermore, by melting the gelatin and incorporating it into the meat mixture, the melting tanks can assist in preserving these products' desired texture and consistency.
• Beauty and Skincare Products: Melting tanks for gelatin are also useful in the cosmetic and skincare industries. Gelatin is frequently used in collagen masks and peel-off masks. The melting tanks can be used to obtain liquid gelatin, which is then further processed and combined with other components to make masks that contain collagen. Moreover, gelatin has film-forming properties. Therefore, the melting tanks can also be used to prepare gelatin that will be utilized to create films for various products.
• Medical and Pharmaceutical Applications: Gelatin melting tanks are also used in the pharmaceutical industry. Gelatin is used to manufacture capsules, soft and hard. The melting tanks can be used to liquefy the gelatin, which is then formed into capsules that will hold medicines, supplements, or vitamins. Additionally, gelatin dissolves easily in warm water, creating a translucent solution that can be used in medical applications. For example, when melting gelatin, the tanks can assist in producing gelatin solutions used as plasma substitutes in medicine.

How to choose gelatin melting tanks

When purchasing gelatin melting tanks for sale, buyers need to consider the following factors closely.

• Capacity

  The ability of the gelatin melting tank typically varies from 20L to 8000L. Smaller tanks are around 20L to 300L in size and are usually used in small-scale or local production facilities. Larger industrial tanks for large-scale production can range from 500L up to 8000L.

• Temperature control

  A gelatin melting tank with accurate temp control ensures gelatin can be melted consistently and precisely. Look for tanks with digital or electronic temp controllers.

• Construction material

  The melting tank's construction material affects its durability and performance. Stainless steel is a common and ideal choice for gelatin melting tank manufacturers. It's strong, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean, and it meets most food safety standards.

• Agitation system

  Some purchasing cues include the type of agitation system and frequency of agitation. Consider the tank's stirring method, whether it's a built-in stick, external stirrer, or agitator. Determine how often stirring is done during melting.

• Manifold and pump

  Check the type and size of the manifold and pump fitted to the melting tank. Ensure they are sufficient for the intended application and can handle the capacity of the tank.

• Mobility and portability

  Some customers look for melting tanks that are mobile or easy to carry. Check for melting tanks with wheels, handles, or lifting points that allow them to be moved easily when needed.

• Energy source

  The energy source for the melting tank can be electrical, gas, or steam. Electric tanks are common and easy to use, but some may prefer gas or steam for specific applications or efficiency.

• Safety features

  Safety features are a must in any commercial melting tank. Look for features like over-temperature protection, low-water alarms, or emergency stop buttons.

• Cost

  The price of the gelatin melting tank will depend on its size, agitating system, temp control system, construction materials, safety features, and other factors. Consider all features and performance before making a judgment based on costs.

• Supplier's reputation

  Before purchasing the gelatin melting tanks, buyers should research the supplier and their products. Look for suppliers with a good reputation, checking reviews and ratings from previous customers.

FAQ

Q1: How do Gelatin Melting Tanks work?

A1: Gelatin melting tanks function by gradually and uniformly heating the gelatin and water combination to a temperature that will convert the mixture into a clear, homogenous liquid. Such tanks can have various heating systems such as steam, hot water jackets or electric heating elements.

Q2: Are Gelatin Melting Tanks customizable?

A2: Many manufacturers offer Gelatin Melting Tanks that can be made according to specific requirements, such as desired size, additional features, or certain configurations.

Q3: How energy-efficient are Gelatin melting tanks?

A3: The energy efficiency of gelatin melting tanks can differ significantly according to their design, insulation, heating elements, and control systems. Opt for tanks with good insulation to cut energy loss.

Q4: What are Gelatin Melting Tanks made of?

A4: The material of the Gelatin Melting Tank should be durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to clean. Stainless steel is often used for food processing equipment because of its cleanliness and durability.