The microwave and hot air pasteurisation tunnel with holding section is a continuous industrial oven designed for the pasteurisation of packaged food products.
The technology combines microwaves and hot air in a single process: microwave energy rapidly heats the product to its core, while hot air helps to equalise the surface temperature and maintain it for the time required for pasteurisation.
The product is automatically conveyed through the oven, allowing the system to be integrated into continuous production lines.
The microwave and hot air tunnel is designed for continuous operation and to achieve an average throughput of up to 800–1,000 kg/h, depending on the product, packaging format and set process parameters.
The technology combines microwaves and hot air in a single process: microwaves enable rapid heating of the product core, while hot air helps to even out the surface temperature and maintain it for the time required for pasteurisation.
The system uses microwave generators distributed in the upper and lower sections of the treatment zone to promote uniform energy distribution throughout the product.
The total installed microwave power is 80 kW and can be adjusted according to the requirements of the production process.
Microwave heating enables rapid energy transfer to the product, helping it reach the required temperature even in its internal sections.
Microwave treatment is complemented by a recirculated hot air system designed to complete and ensure uniformity of the thermal process.
The air is heated by electric heating elements, with the temperature controlled via the operator panel, and distributed inside the chamber through a ventilation and recirculation system.
The treatment chamber is made of stainless steel.
The exterior of the tunnel can be made of painted carbon steel in a choice of colours or stainless steel.
The hood lifting structure is manufactured to the highest safety and reliability standards.
The tunnel integrates the microwave heating zone and the subsequent hot air holding zone.
The microwave generation, power supply and control system is integrated into the machine structure.
MIT SRL's standard design allows the hood to be automatically raised by means of a synchronised movement system.
Opening the hood provides easier access to the internal parts of the machine, facilitating inspection, cleaning and maintenance operations.
A patented microwave attenuation system has been adopted for microwave shielding, requiring neither cooling systems nor maintenance.
The tunnel is available with a standard usable width of 1,600 mm, but can be sized according to the required width.
The conveyor belt speed is adjustable, allowing the residence time in the oven to be adapted to the requirements of the product and the process.
The system is designed for automatic loading and unloading, facilitating integration with other machines in the production line.
The main operating parameters of the oven can be set and controlled via the operator panel, including:
Adjusting these parameters allows the treatment to be adapted to the characteristics of the product and specific production requirements.
Reference configuration. The usable width and overall dimensions can be adapted to the product and production line.
Desk studies, sizing assessments and energy calculations are carried out before project development. Expected performance is verified through in-house testing on actual products.
Compatible with microwave-safe, non-metallic packaging, without restrictions to proprietary trays, films or valves. Packaging is selected according to the product.
Recipes, traceability, temperature control, data logging, alarms, remote assistance and integration with existing production lines.
Microwave applicators, shielding systems, and command and control systems developed in-house to ensure safety, stability, durability and ease of maintenance.
Accessible components, clear diagnostics, identifiable spare parts and operator training: the system is designed to allow customers to carry out routine maintenance in-house, reducing downtime and dependence on the supplier.
Texture, colour, nutrients, clean-label characteristics and shelf life are verified through testing and validation.
Validated cooking and pasteurisation processes for organic production.
Download the catalogue dedicated to cooking and pasteurisation and the appendix featuring practical applications.
2026 catalogue featuring solutions, technologies and configurations for industrial processes.
Download the catalogue
Appendix featuring industrial applications and combined microwave processes.
Download the appendixThe MIT pasteurisation tunnel, from the system structure to the continuous processing of packaged food products.
