A Revolution for Cheesemakers

Why Measuring Milk Coagulation Is Essential in Cheesemaking

Milk coagulation is one of the most critical stages in cheese production. Identifying the optimal cutting time directly impacts:

• cheese yield

• solids retention

• curd quality

• consistency between vats

• reduction of losses (components)

  
  

Traditionally, cheesemakers rely on experience, visual observation, and manual tests. However, these methods can vary depending on operators, milk types, and production conditions.

To address this challenge, Qualtech, in partnership with Bliq Photonics, developed the CS-550 coagulation probe, a cutting-edge optical technology that enables real-time, non-contact, in-line measurement of casein aggregation.

What is the CS-550 Coagulation Probe?

The CS-550 is an in-tank optical sensor designed to analyze coagulation directly inside the cheese vat without disturbing the curd.

The system is:

• sampling-free

• calibration-free

• CIPable (Clean-in-Place)

• compliant with 3-A sanitary standards (certification pending)

It continuously generates a coagulation curve, allowing operators to precisely identify:

• identify the golden batch

• the coagulation time

• the optimal cutting point based on the recipe

How Does the CS-550 Sensor Work?

The technology at the core of the CS-550 relies on two key innovations.

1. Patented Hilo Optical Technology

Hilo combines two distinct illumination methods to improve image quality and isolate relevant casein structures.

2. Smart Image Processing

The SPARQ processing system analyzes:

• diffraction patterns generated by the laser

• the density and organization of casein structures

• the evolution of gel formation over time

This provides reliable, precise, and reproducible data, independent of milk variability.

Real-Time Data for Maximum Precision

The CS-550 provides a continuous gelation curve, illustrating the evolution of casein aggregation:

• Beginning: caseins freely suspended

• Progression: protein network formation

• Apex: complete aggregation

• Optimal cutting time determined

This allows cheesemakers to make data-driven process decisions.

Key Benefits for Cheese Plants

The CS-550 sensor delivers major advantages to the cheese industry.

1. Elimination of Manual Tests

No more sampling or disturbing the curd.

2. Fully Automated Cutting

The sensor can communicate directly with the PLC to automatically trigger the next steps in the process.

3. Improved Solids Retention

Accurate cutting timing increases recovery of proteins and fats.

4. Reduced Fine Losses in Whey

By avoiding cutting too early or too late.

5. Standardization Between Vats

Ideal for plants seeking consistent and repeatable quality.

6. Early Detection of Process Anomalies

A key tool to reduce downtime and improve batch quality.

7. Data Available Throughout the Plant

Through full integration with Spark IoT:

• historical data tracking

• alarms

• real-time trends

• automated reports

Simple and Hygienic Installation

The sensor is designed for fast and easy installation:

• Direct tank mounting (NA connect)

• Hygienic design compliant with 3-A standards

• Materials: 316 stainless steel and borosilicate glass window

• Operating temperature range: 4°C to 85°C

It integrates easily with existing infrastructures (4-20 mA, Ethernet/IP, M12 I/O), making it compatible with most cheese plants.

Why Choose an Optical Coagulation Sensor?

Because it allows cheesemakers to:

• improve process reliability

• reduce human variability

• improve cheese quality

• optimize every liter of milk

• increase plant profitability

• reduce production errors by detecting anomalies early

The optical technology used in the CS-550 originates from the biomedical field, a sector known for its extremely high precision standards.

A Must-Have for Modern Cheese Plants

The CS-550 is not just a sensor, it is a process optimization tool.

At a time when cheese plants must:

• increase efficiency

• reduce losses

• ensure consistent product quality

• automate production processes

  
  

the CS-550 coagulation probe stands out as one of the most precise, reliable, and innovative solutions available on the market.