Automatización del Reactor para el Proceso de Elaboración de Yogurt en el Laboratorio de Procesos Industriales de la Facultad de Ciencias.

Abstract

The reactor for the production of yogurt in the Process Laboratory of the Faculty of Science on the “Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo” was automated. The Heuristic method was used for the design and implementation of electrical, electronic and control system and the experimental method to verify and correct equipment malfunctions applies. The programmable Logic Controller (PLC) processes the logical internal program which works based on of information receipted by PT100 temperature sensors, to enable or disable a solenoid valve or regulate the quantity of heat emitted by the heater power by means of a phase controller in order to stabilize the temperature to the desired value.The flow sensor controls the quantity of water that comes in the outer compartment of the reactor. The power-reducer maintains a constant stirring of the ingredients during the production of yogurt. By using a touch screen it is possible to enter values and monitor temperature and time which are critical variables in the process. The operating status of the machine was compared before automatic and an error in the temperature stabilization of ± 50C was determined. After automation an error of ± 0, 4 0C was determined, resulting in efficiency temperature stabilization of 98.85%. The automation implemented answered satisfactorily, minimizing the time spent by the staff controlling the different stages of the process, ensuring product quality through optimum temperature control time. Students of Laboratory Process are recommended to review procedures manual prior to use of machinery.