Knowledge Article
Twin screw pumps: Gentle product handling and more efficient production
In the pharmaceutical, food, beverage and process industries, demands for both quality and efficiency are increasing. Not only must products be handled hygienically, they must also be transported in a gentle way that preserves their consistency and properties. This is where hygienic twin-screw pumps play a crucial role - a pump technology that combines high performance with gentle product handling, high hygiene and pulsation-free operation.
What is a twin screw pump and how does it work?
In twin screw pump is a positive displacement pump that uses two synchronized screws in a pump casing, freely rotating with minimal clearances, to transport both clean liquids and viscous suspensions. The design allows the pump to handle everything from low-viscosity liquids to thick, particle-filled masses.
In addition, the twin screw pump has a major advantage over other displacement pumps: it can not only transport products but also act as a CIP pump (Cleaning-in-Place) when cleaning. Two functions in one pump - simplifying the system and reducing the need for additional equipment such as valves and external CIP pumps.
Five reasons to choose twin screw pumps
1. Gentle product handling
Products with sensitive ingredients - such as protein solutions, yogurt with fruit pieces, gels, sauces with particles or carbonated drinks - risk being damaged during pumping.
Twin screw pumps delivers a continuous and pulsation-free flow that preserves structure and consistency, so that e.g. proteins, gels, fibers and bubbles remain intact and the final product is of high quality.
2. flexibility of use
A major advantage is the twin screw pump's ability to handle both thin and thick products in the same system. This means that you can transport water-based liquids one moment and high-viscosity creams the next, without extensive changeovers. In addition, the pump has good self-priming capabilities and a low NPSH value, making it effective in many applications.
Thanks to the innovative design, the flow can also be reversed if necessary, for example to empty a pipeline or drain the system.
The pump is perfectly suited for fully linear frequency control according to your needs, even in ATEX environments.
3. Hygiene and easy cleaning (CIP/SIP compatibility)
Twin screw pumps are designed for high hygiene requirements, CIP and can often handle temperatures up to 130 degrees such as during SIP. They are also fully drainable and all fluid-affected parts are made of polished SS316L with FDA/USP6-certified sealing materials. This means that the pump, with high repeatability, can be cleaned efficiently without disassembly, saving both time and resources and in line with Good Manufacturing Practice GMP.
4. High operational reliability
The design with two synchronized screws that run completely free from each other reduces wear and provides a long service life. The pump is reliable even at varying pressures and temperatures, making it particularly reliable in demanding process environments.
5. Lower costs and higher productivity
Because twin screw pumps can replace multiple pump types in a single production line, the need for additional equipment is reduced. This means lower operating costs, fewer spare parts, and more efficient production - all of which translates into a safer process, higher reliability, and lower maintenance costs for our customers.
For demanding and abrasive applications, several different surface treatments and sealing combinations are also available for increased flexibility.
A pump technology that boosts both quality and production
A twin-screw pump is more than just a pump - it's a hygienic, pulsation-free solution for gentle and sustainable product handling.
With its combination of flexibility, hygiene, reliability and energy efficiency, it is an obvious choice for industries where the quality of the end product is crucial. In addition, the pump can be easily integrated into the control system and steplessly regulated in both flow and pressure - for a production that is as efficient as it is gentle.
The pump combines high performance as well as easy preventive maintenance.
Want to know more about how twin screw pumps can bring reliability and added value to your production? Get in touch - I'll help you find the right solution for your process.
This text was written by Mattias Steffl (mattias.steffl@colly.se), Business Area Manager Pump at Colly Flowtech.
Explore our range of twin screw pumpsFrequently asked questions about twin screw pumps
How do twin screw pumps work?
Twin-screw pumps work with two synchronized screws that rotate without contact. This creates a pulsation-free flow that transports both thin liquids and highly viscous products in a gentle and hygienic way.
Are twin screw pumps self-priming and how does it work?
Yes, twin screw pumps are self-priming. Thanks to their design, they can create a vacuum in the pipeline and efficiently transport liquids even at low fill levels or varying pressure conditions.
What pressure can a twin screw pump handle?
A twin-screw pump can typically handle pressures up to around 16-20 bar, depending on the model and application. This makes the technology reliable even in demanding process environments with high hygiene requirements.
What are the advantages of twin screw pumps?
The advantages of twin screw pumps are gentle product handling, pulsation-free operation, high flexibility and easy cleaning with CIP/SIP. They can handle both thin and thick products in the same system.
Are there disadvantages of twin screw pumps compared to other pumps?
Disadvantages of twin screw pumps can be a slightly higher investment cost compared to simpler pump types. At the same time, they often save on cost through lower maintenance, higher reliability and more applications.
Do you have any questions?
