Axial temperature profile of ohmically heated fluid jet: Analytical model and experimental validation

Temperature profile of an ohmically heated fluid jet was determined both by experimental measurements and analytical model. Heat loss to the environment and viscous dissipation were considered negligible in the simulation results. We also assumed that electrical heating rate is zero outside the fluid jet. The model predictions yielded good agreement with the experimental infrared thermography measurements. Parameters affecting temperature distribution in the fluid jet were studied such as mass flowrate, impingement distance of the jet, heating power and specific electrical conductivity. The simulation and also experimental trials show that the principal critical process factor in fluid jet ohmic heater was the fluid level and one can deduce its great impact on the thermal treatment. This study can be used for designing and controlling this ohmic heater to ensure thermal sterilization and safety of ohmically heated food products.