Heating Lag Factor (j) Determination
Calculates the dimensionless heating lag factor (j) from heat penetration data according to Ball's method for thermal process validation in sterilization processes.
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1. Define Input Parameters
2. Engineering Output
Pseudo-Initial Temperature Difference (dT_pseudo)
- °C
- °C
Initial Temperature Difference (dT_0)
- °C
- °C
Heating Lag Factor (j)
- dimensionless
- dimensionless
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The heating lag factor (j) quantifies the thermal inertia of a product during the initial phase of a thermal sterilization cycle. Derived using Ball's method from semi-logarithmic heat penetration data, it corrects for the non-instantaneous temperature response of a product relative to the heating medium. Accurately determining j is essential for process engineers and authorities to calculate thermal lethality and establish validated process schedules.
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