Temperature Sensor Placement Errors in institutional Size Retort Pouches

Improper positioning of the temperature-measuring device in institutional size retort pouches containing low acid, conduction heating foods was examined for changes in the perceived process time, Numerical technqiues were used to predict process time by the improved general method at various positions in the infinite slab region. Regression models were developed for the prediction of process time and used to identify the factors which significantly interacted with position of the temperature measuring device. Positioning was not critical within a small range near the center of the slab. A positioning accuracy of ±0.318 –±0.32 cm around the center of pouches having a thickness of greater than 1.3 cm did not significantly change the determined process time. This range tolerance increased as slab thickness increased.