Background
To meet the increasing demands of customers within the food processing industry, high equipment availability and production efficiency are critical factors. High Pressure Processing (HPP) technology is widely used to improve food safety and extend product shelf life while preserving product quality. The Quintus Technologies QIF 600L is currently one of the largest HPP systems available on the market, with a processing capacity of up to 6000 liters of juice, beverages, or meat products per hour.
As competition and customer expectations continue to grow, reducing cycle time has become an important area for further development. The HPP cycle consists of several sequential process steps, each presenting opportunities for optimization through improved design, engineering, and component performance. Enhancing critical components within the system can contribute to both reduced processing times and increased operational efficiency.
One cycle sequence with a significant impact on cycle time is the decompression. The decompression setup is responsible for both sealing the high-pressure system and controlling pressure release during operation. Its flow capacity directly influences depressurization time, while its reliability and service life affect equipment availability and maintenance requirements. Improvements in flow performance therefore have the potential to reduce processing costs, increase system uptime, and enhance overall customer productivity.
Task description
This thesis investigates opportunities to improve the performance and durability of the decompression system used in high-pressure processing systems. The study aims to identify the critical factors affecting valve performance and lifetime under extreme operating conditions.
Key research questions include:
- Which parameters have the greatest impact on decompression performance and cycle time?
- What are the primary failure mechanisms affecting valve reliability and service life?
- How can design modifications improve valve functionality and durability?
- Which materials are most suitable for the extreme pressure, flow, and wear conditions encountered during operation?
- What solutions and technologies are currently available on the market for similar applications?
The outcome of the study is expected to provide recommendations for design improvements that can enhance valve performance, increase reliability, and contribute to shorter process cycle times in future HPP systems.
Suitable background
Applicants should have a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, preferably with specialization or experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Flow Simulations
- Finite Element Analysis (FEA/FEM)
- Mechanical Design and Product Development
- Materials Engineering
- Reliability and Fatigue Analysis
This background will provide the necessary theoretical and practical foundation to evaluate valve performance and propose engineering improvements.
Application Information
The thesis will take place at Quintus office in Västerås and is expected to start January 2027. The selection will be ongoing so therefore apply as soon as possible, but no later than October 31st.
Send your resume and short introduction of yourself together with grades to recruitment@quintusteam.com