Pilot testing & Process Scale-up

Bridge the gap between laboratory and production

A process that performs well in a beaker or small laboratory setup will not automatically behave the same way at a larger scale. Mixing, heat transfer, residence time, separation, viscosity and drying behaviour can all change. Pilot testing makes these effects visible before significant production or investment decisions are made.

food-grade pilot testing

Bodec’s pilot facilities support the testing and combination of multiple unit operations. Depending on the product and process, this can include mixing, reaction, extraction, enzymatic hydrolysis, centrifugation, decanter separation, membrane filtration, evaporation, spray drying, drum drying and agitated thin-film drying.

Additional equipment through our partner network

If a project requires equipment that is not permanently available in our pilot plant, we can source and rent additional equipment through our technology and equipment partners. Subject to technical fit, food-safety requirements, available space, utilities and planning, the equipment can be temporarily integrated into the pilot setup for the required trial.

A structured pilot food process scale-up programme

We begin with a technical intake covering the raw material, existing process, product requirements, food-safety information and desired scale. Based on this information, we prepare a trial plan with objectives, process steps, required quantities, measurements and practical responsibilities.

More than producing a sample

A pilot should provide information for the next decision. During the trial, we monitor critical process conditions and collect relevant samples and observations. This helps assess technical feasibility, product quality, yield, reproducibility, processing time and possible bottlenecks.

Preparing for the next scale

After the trial, results are evaluated against the project objectives. Bodec provides practical conclusions and recommendations for further development, another pilot iteration, first commercial production or transfer to a larger manufacturing environment.

Plan your pilot trial or discuss your project. We will asses feasibility and define the next practical step!