Define the particle distribution
Describe the largest pieces, typical size distribution, concentration, shape and whether the pieces are soft or fragile. Include fibres and seeds. A single maximum dimension is useful for mechanical clearance but leaves much of the product behaviour unspecified.
Trace the smallest passage in the full route
Review the selected pump, valve ports, tube passages, bends and downstream connections. Clearance through the exchanger alone is insufficient if another part of the path restricts the food. The circuit drawing is the basis for this review.
Assess heating and residence separately
Bulk liquid temperature does not by itself describe the centre of each piece. Particle heating and residence require a product-specific process assessment. An oversized passage, nominal holding time or generic maximum temperature cannot substitute for that evidence.
Use the actual recipe for useful trials
Agree which product conditions and quality observations a trial should cover. Depending on the duty, review flow, pressure, heating history, deposits, texture and the receiving process. Equipment checks with water demonstrate selected hardware and control functions, not the complete particulate-food process.