The MONA System is a patented, compact device for the hygienic filtration process during which Alicyclobacillus (ACB) spores are eliminated from the concentrate. In addition, the system improves the microbiological quality and turbidity. The unit is dual-function: when not filtering concentrate it can also be used as a standard juice pasteurizer, equally for NFC juices. For both concentrate and juice, the unit has the option of connecting to aseptic filling system.

The concentrate in the storage is of high viscosity, which prevents the filtration from being effective. In order to allow filtration, its viscosity shall be lowered - this is achieved by rising the temperature in the heat exchanger and the regeneration section of the exchanger. Filtration of pre-heated concentrate takes place on a two-section of PHE.  In the first section, there is pre-filtration which eliminates larger impurities.
The second sterile filtration provides a product with no microorganisms, Including a high reduction of ACB spores. The concentrate after this step is an aseptic product.  The aseptic concentrate goes to the regeneration section of the heat exchanger, where it partially gives back the heat absorbed and then it is cooled to the set temperature on the cooling section. 
The concentrate after this step is an aseptic product. The aseptic concentrate goes to the regeneration section of the heat exchanger, where it partially gives back the heat absorbed and then it is cooled to the set temperature on the cooling section.

The control system is designed in a manner which ensures the process is carried out with maximum product safety. MONA operating system has been divided into two stages: cleaning and production. Water in closed circuit is heated up and after specified time is sterile and ready for the product intake. Sterilization filters works in parallel to thermal disinfection.

 * MONA ASF 8t/10t/15t

** approximate figures, can vary depending on piping and amount of filter plates
*** filtered concentrate on one set of plates, depending on the quality of an input concentrate