SARA Cleaning System for granules used in technical corks

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The SARA® process is M.A. Silva’s latest development for the removal of TCA and other polyphenols in granulated cork. This automated process ensures the granules receive prolonged direct contact with pressured stream volatilizing the target compounds. Material processed with the SARA® cleaning system are as clean as our natural cork, allowing M.A. Silva exceptional neutrality across our entire line of products.

The SARA® system is a continuous process that utilizes two linked chambers. The upper chamber sterilizes the cork material by volatilizing TCA and polyphenols with pressurized steam, and exhausting the gases. The granules are constantly stirred with a worm-shaft to ensure that all surfaces are exposed to the steam.

Sterilized cork material then passes into the lower chamber for drying. Hot air is passed through the granules, again with worm-shaft stirring, to achieve even reductions in moisture content. The finished treated material is then used for our Silktop® 1+1, Pearl agglomerate and sparkling wine corks.

Benefits of the SARA® Cleaning System

  • View brochure (PDF)
  • Complete extraction – Granules experience prolonged direct contact with pressured stream volatilizing the target compounds.
  • Continuous processing system – Corks move from steaming directly to drying, eliminating the risk of microbial contamination.
  • Automated Processing – Continuous feed of granules through the SARA® allows for high volume production.