Balance Tanks

Balance tanks are a staple of a dairy’s pasteurization process and other beverage HTST loops.  A balance tank is a vessel that keeps product at a constant level above a pump inlet and will generally have a level sensor to help maintain tank volume.  As the pump draws more fluid from the tank, the tank level drops and a level device allows the flow of additional fluid into the tank. Balance tank inlets are often located at the bottom of the tank so that liquid enters below the surface, eliminating splashing and product aeration. Additionally, air already present in the product will try to rise in the tank. Some deaeration will actually take place, which favorably affects pump performance.