Single-screw cooking extruder
The single-screw cooking-extruder that can transform any raw materials into high added value products

After flour hydration and mixing, the forced feeder fills the cooking barrel, which can reach high temperatures thanks to the heaters surrounding the cylinder, as well as a conditioning unit that enables the right temperature profile required to cook specific kinds and blends of flours.
In a GEA xTru Cooker extruder, most of the energy required for cooking comes from a single fluid (super-heated water) that flows in jackets around the main barrel. This fluid is heated by electric resistance and its temperature is controlled with chilled water. Since it uses only one fluid, the system is more stable than technology with separate heating and cooling systems.
In addition, the specific kneading/shear profiles of the cooking screw enable a long residence time for perfect cooking.
Parts in contact with the product, such as the single-shaft premixer, mixing tank and shaft with orientable paddles are made of stainless steel and can be easily disassembled for cleaning and sanitisation.
The machines are equipped with safety probes to get immediate feedback on any malfunctions; the drive system for the extrusion screw is equipped with a thrust bearing dimensioned with a wide safety margin and corresponding protection casing; the electrical plant is manufactured in compliance with EN60204-1 standards, including sensors and safety microswitches.
The extrusion screws are made of induction-hardened stainless steel, which offers high yield strength and good corrosion resistance. The supporting structures are made of carbon-painted steel, including a service platform for easy access and maintenance.

FEATURED
Automated milking has become the first choice for many modern dairy farms. The benefits are compelling, and with a new batch milking solution from GEA, automated group milking for large dairy herds is possible without the need – and expense – of rebuilding existing facilities.
GEA has once again earned the highest rating – Platinum – in the globally recognized EcoVadis sustainability assessment. With a score of 92 out of 100, the machinery and plant manufacturer has improved significantly from last year’s result of 82 points. For the second year in a row, GEA ranks among the top one percent of more than 150,000 rated companies across 185 countries.
At Carlsberg’s Fredericia brewery, GEA VARIVENT valves are part of a long-game strategy. By reusing core valve bodies, retrofitting actuators and control tops, and planning maintenance around brewing seasons, Carlsberg extends asset life, reduces downtime and supports its ambitious water and sustainability targets.