Sanitary Valves
Key features of sanitary valves are:
- Materials: Sanitary valves are typically made from stainless steel, particularly grades such as 304 and 316L, which offer excellent corrosion resistance and are easy to clean. The surfaces of the valves are often polished to a smooth finish to prevent the accumulation of particles and facilitate effective cleaning.
- Design and Construction: Sanitary valves are designed with a focus on cleanability and hygiene. They typically have smooth and crevice-free surfaces to prevent the buildup of bacteria or other contaminants. The valve bodies are often designed with minimal dead spaces, eliminating pockets where material could collect. This helps ensure thorough cleaning and sterilization.
Types of Sanitary Valves:
- Butterfly Valves: Sanitary butterfly valves are commonly used in applications that require quick shut-off and flow control. They consist of a disc that rotates on a shaft to control the flow. The disc is typically made of stainless steel and designed to create a smooth flow path when fully open.
- Ball Valves: Sanitary ball valves use a rotating ball with a hole through it to control flow. They provide excellent flow control and tight shut-off. The ball is usually made of stainless steel, and the sealing materials are chosen to comply with sanitary standards.
- Diaphragm Valves: Sanitary diaphragm valves use a flexible diaphragm to control flow. The diaphragm isolates the process fluid from the valve’s internal components, making it suitable for applications where contamination must be minimized.
- Check Valves: Sanitary check valves allow flow in one direction while preventing backflow. They are commonly used to maintain the flow direction and prevent product contamination.
- Plug Valves: Sanitary plug valves use a cylindrical or tapered plug to control flow. They are often used in applications requiring flow control and tight shut-off.
- Connection Types: Sanitary valves typically have options that comply with industry standards, such as Tri-Clamp, DIN, or IDF connections. These connections ensure easy and secure installation, disassembly and cleaning.
- Valve Actuation: Sanitary valves can be manually operated or equipped with various actuators for automatic control. Actuators can include pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic systems, allowing remote or automated operation of the valves.
- Standards and Certifications: Sanitary valves are often required to meet specific industry standards and certifications, such as those set by organizations like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 3-A Sanitary Standards, European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
When selecting sanitary valves, it is important to consider the specific application requirements, compatibility with the process fluid, ease of cleaning and maintenance and compliance with relevant industry regulations and standards.
Disclaimer: Product images are for representation purposes only. The actual part/product could differ based on individual requirements. Please contact us for more information.