SPX Flow launches portable pilot system for whey protein microparticulation
SPX Flow has introduced a mobile Combi Microparticulation (MP) pilot line at its Silkeborg, Denmark Innovation Centre, enabling dairy producers to develop functional whey protein ingredients either on-site or through rental agreements.
The unit combines two of the company’s microparticulation technologies – LeanCreme™ and Cavimaster™ – on a single platform, allowing manufacturers to compare processing methods and optimise particle size distribution for specific applications.
From by-product to functional ingredient
Whey protein has gained commercial value across multiple food categories, including ready-to-drink beverages, desserts and fermented dairy products. The portable pilot system operates at 150 litres per hour, enabling formulation trials with limited product quantities whilst generating process data applicable to full-scale production.
“This innovation gives our customers a competitive edge,” said Thomas Leroy, Global Head of Innovation Centers at SPX Flow. “By offering two microparticulation methods in one pilot, we help producers accelerate formulation development, reduce waste during testing and tailor the particle size of whey proteins to different product applications.”
Technical flexibility for product development
The Combi design addresses the need for process validation before capital investment in production equipment. Manufacturers can conduct comparative trials between the two microparticulation technologies to determine which system best suits their product specifications
and texture requirements.
Both rental and on-site testing options aim to reduce development timelines and minimise raw material consumption during the formulation phase. The system’s modest throughput makes it suitable for experimental batches whilst providing scalable data for commercial production planning.
Market positioning
According to SPX Flow, demand for the pilot system reflects broader industry investment in protein modification technologies. The company positions its application expertise and pilot-scale testing capacity as differentiators in the dairy processing equipment sector.
The LeanCreme™ and Cavimaster™ technologies can be explored independently through the company’s product pages, with technical specifications available for each system.
For more information, visit: www.spxflow.com
