A lab-scale reciprocating agitation retort was developed by modifying an existing conventional vertical
static retort to include a reciprocating mechanism consisting of: (i) a reciprocating cage; (ii) a slider crank assembly; and (iii) a permanent magnet motor. Mechanism was provided to control the amplitude
(3–30 cm) and frequency of reciprocations (0–5 Hz). 307 409 cans filled with 80% glycerin to 10 mm
headspace and equipped with a single particle were processed under different operating temperatures
(110–130 C), frequencies (0–4 Hz) and amplitudes (5–25 cm). Heat transfer analysis of the system
revealed a very uniform and rapid heating scenario with 52–87% reduction in the equilibration time of
the cold-spot and 2–7 times enhancement in the values of heat transfer coefficients. Consequently,
process time required to achieve lethality of 10 min, reduced from 45 min to 17–24 min. Reciprocation
processing also resulted in 26–36% reduction in quality-deterioration index (cook-value/lethality), show-
ing potential to deliver high quality products.