Sidel has introduced the new-generation Swing Evo tunnel pasteurizer, which combines a modular architecture with a counter-current concept for water and energy flow. The solution is designed to meet the needs of beer producers and is suitable for operation with both glass and can packaging. Thanks to the autonomy of individual modules, the unit enables precise control of the pasteurization profile and media consumption in each tunnel segment.
The manufacturer emphasizes that the new design is intended to set a standard in the sustainable operation of tunnel pasteurizers. The use of counter-current media flow and separation of heat circuits helps to reduce energy losses and limit unnecessary transfers between tanks. As a result, the user can adjust operating parameters to current production requirements without affecting other machine zones, which is important especially for diversified packaging and product portfolios.
Andrea Solfa, tunnel product manager and plant manager at Sidel, comments on the solution as follows: "Swing Evo pushes the boundaries of sustainability by introducing genuine modular efficiency. By ensuring autonomy for each module and running the upper and lower decks in opposite directions, we have created a pasteurizer that optimizes the use of every drop of water and every kilowatt of energy without compromising quality."
Counter-current flow and independent heat circuits
The design of Swing Evo is based on a counter-current configuration in which the process water flow and the product move in opposite directions. Combined with separate heat and water circuits, this reduces thermal losses and eliminates unnecessary circulation between tanks. Each module is controlled independently, allowing precise mapping of the temperature profile in the individual sections for pasteurization, stabilization and cooling.
According to the manufacturer, this approach makes it possible to reduce water consumption by 10%, electricity consumption by 35% and steam consumption by 10% compared with reference solutions. This effect has been achieved, among other things, by optimizing pipe run lengths, reducing unfavourable heat exchanges and implementing predictive control algorithms for the cooling medium.
Solfa notes: "Every aspect of the design has been re-engineered for efficiency. From reducing pipework length to predictive control of the cooling medium, Swing Evo proves that less is more."
Pasteurization control using the Prince X system
The Swing Evo pasteurizer uses the Prince X predictive control system, developed by Sidel for managing beverage pasteurization processes. This solution analyses product temperature changes in real time and automatically adjusts spraying conditions in the tunnel zones. Its purpose is to eliminate the risk of under- or over-pasteurization, including under conditions of unstable line operation.
The system responds to events such as production stoppages or power outages by correcting process parameters to maintain the target pasteurization units (PU). According to the manufacturer, the solution also increases flexibility in handling different packaging formats and a wide range of stock keeping units (SKUs), allowing optimal adjustment of settings to different production scenarios.
The unit can also operate as a stand-alone cooler, without the need to integrate additional machines or complex peripheral solutions. This configuration can be used for products that do not require pasteurization but must be cooled to a defined temperature before further logistics operations.
Modularity and operating ergonomics
The modular architecture of Swing Evo has been designed to simplify line design, installation and day-to-day operation. Compact modules are intended to facilitate integration in both new and existing production layouts, reducing the required footprint and enabling optimization of conveyor routing.
The first industrial installation of the Swing Evo pasteurizer was implemented at the Refresco plant in Sulmona, Italy. According to information provided by Sidel, thanks to the use of pre-assembled modules and a simplified design, the unit was fully assembled and commissioned in around one week. Shorter installation time can be important for plants planning line upgrades with limited shutdown options.
In daily operation, the Swing Evo design is intended to provide easy access to major components. Sliding side doors, top access and the possibility of performing many service tasks without tools simplify inspection and maintenance of pumps, valves and probes. The internal layout is also designed to facilitate visual inspection and cleaning.
The manufacturer points out that the combination of compact machine dimensions and good service accessibility helps shorten intervention times and improve the safety of production and maintenance teams. As a result, inspection and repair operations can be carried out more quickly, reducing downtime on the filling line.
Simplifying the process as a direction of development
In designing Swing Evo, Sidel focused on reducing design complexity while improving energy efficiency and process stability. The modular concept, counter-current flow, independent control of individual sections and integration of the Prince X system form a consistent solution aimed at optimizing media consumption and controlling pasteurization parameters.
Summarizing the approach applied in the development of the new unit, Andrea Solfa states: "Swing Evo is an excellent example that innovation does not always mean redesigning everything from scratch. Sometimes the smartest solutions are those that simplify what is complex and increase efficiency without extra effort."
The new Sidel tunnel pasteurizer reflects a broader trend in the beverage industry towards improving energy and water efficiency and moving to more flexible line configurations. The modular design and capability to handle both glass and can packaging position Swing Evo particularly for breweries seeking to modernize existing pasteurization installations.
