Why a Process Tank Isn’t Always a Pasteurizer—and Why That Matters

The main difference between a stainless process tank and a batch pasteurizer lies in their function and purpose—though both can look similar and may be made from stainless steel, they serve different roles in food or beverage production industry.

Stainless Process Tank

Purpose: A stainless process tank is a general-purpose vessel used in many industries (food, dairy, beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical) to mix, store, heat, cool, or process ingredients. It does not necessarily include pasteurization capability.

Key Features:

• Made from stainless steel (usually 304 or 316 for food-grade use)

• Can be jacketed (for heating/cooling), insulated, or agitated

• Used for blending, fermenting, storing, or simple processing

• Flexible usage—can be customized for many applications

  
  

Example Uses:

• Holding milk or cream before bottling

• Mixing sauces or dressings

• Storing liquids at a controlled temperature

  
  

Batch Pasteurizer

Purpose: A batch pasteurizer is a specific type of process tank designed to pasteurize (heat-treat) liquid food products like milk, juice, or cider to kill harmful bacteria.

Key Features:

• Always includes heating and cooling systems (usually via a water or steam jacket)

• Designed to heat product to a specific temperature (e.g. 145°F for 30 minutes)

• May include agitation to ensure even heating

• Must include a specific leak detection valve

• Often comes with temperature controls, timers, and charts for regulatory compliance

  
  

Example Uses:

• Pasteurizing raw milk for cheese or bottling

• Heating fruit juice to kill pathogens

• Cider production before bottling

  
  

Summary of Differences:

Feature	Stainless Process Tank	Batch Pasteurizer
Primary Function	General mixing/storage/heating/cooling	Pasteurization (heating to kill bacteria)
Heating/Cooling	Optional, varies	Required and regulated by PMO Guidelines
Temperature Control	Basic or none	Precise with monitoring & recording of air space and product temperatures
Compliance/Regulation	Not always subject to food safety regs	Must meet health department standards
Usage	Versatile across industries	Specific to food safety processing

Bottom Line:

If you're handling raw dairy or juice and need to comply with pasteurization laws, a batch pasteurizer is the correct equipment. A stainless process tank is more general-purpose and may not meet pasteurization requirements without modifications.