Valves for efficient and safe production in demanding hygienic environments
By Morgan Malm
In the food and pharmaceutical industries, it is crucial that production is carried out with the highest levels of hygiene, safety and process control. An often underestimated but crucial component in these processes is the valve. Valves control flows, prevent cross-contamination and enable efficient cleaning, without stopping production.
In this post, we look at three common valve types in hygienic design and how innovative solutions such as Mix-Proof valves, globe valves and butterfly valves from our partner GEA can contribute to safe and efficient process handling.
GEA Mixproof valves maximum safety and efficiency
GEA Mixproof valves, also known as double-seat valves, are designed to handle two different liquids at the same time, without any risk of cross-contamination. This makes them particularly valuable in environments where products and cleaning media need to be kept separate, such as in dairy, brewing and pharmaceutical production.
GEA was the first to develop and launch the unique Mix-Proof technology - an innovation that has set the standard in the industry.
Thanks to the double seal with integrated leak detection, one part of the system can be cleaned (CIP) while production continues in another part, increasing plant flexibility and uptime.
Below we have summarized some of the main advantages of GEA Mixproof valves:
- Double seal with leak detection - for maximum safety and hygiene
- CIP during ongoing production - save time and increase capacity
- Automated, sustainable construction - for long life and reliability
- LEFF (Low Emission Flip-Flop) - reduces CIP consumption by up to 90 %, increases cleaning efficiency and reduces chemical consumption
- High process safety - for reliable and safe production flows
This makes Mixproof valves an obvious choice when both product safety and production flexibility need to be prioritized simultaneously.
GEA Mixproof valves
Seat valves hygienic valves for flexible flow control
When the need for hygienic flow control is high but processes do not require simultaneous handling of multiple liquids as in mix-proof solutions, the globe valves a smart and cost-effective choice.
The vertical opening and closing mechanism makes it ideal for everything from product changeover between lines to cleaning and sterilization in place (CIP and SIP). In addition, globe valves are available in both single and double seat designs to match different system requirements. This results in a solution that is both reliable and easy to maintain - especially in applications where simplicity, hygiene and longevity are key.
Here are some of the features that make GEA globe valves a popular choice:
- Hygienic design with minimal dead zones - for safe and controlled operation
- Easy to maintain - with durable seals for long life
- Reliable in operation - even under demanding process conditions
- Flexible configurations - a wide range of models for different applications
GEA globe valves are the obvious choice for hygiene-critical processes where quality, efficiency and flexibility are in focus.
GEA globe valves
Butterfly valves - compact valves for hygienic shut-off
When the need is to quickly and reliably stop a flow, for example to switch product lines or isolate a part of the system - we offer the butterfly valve a simple and effective solution. It is often used where precise flow control is not required, but where hygiene, tightness and functionality are still crucial.
Thanks to its compact design and low weight, it is particularly popular in support processes, for example to shut off the flow of water, air or CIP liquids (cleaning agents used in CIP processes).
Below, we have summarized why this valve type is a popular choice in hygienic systems:
- Easy to install and requires minimal maintenance
- Suitable for less critical media such as water, air and cleaning fluids
- Cost-effective solution in support processes
- Good sealing thanks to hygienically adapted sealing materials
This makes the butterfly valve a practical component in any system where reliability, cleanliness and easy handling go hand in hand.
GEA Butterfly valves
A complete solution for hygienic processes
Choosing the right valve in hygienic process environments is crucial - not only for product quality, but for the efficiency, reliability and cleanability of the entire plant. By combining different valve types based on their specific strengths, you can build systems that meet both today's process requirements and the changes of the future.
At Colly Flowtech we look at the big picture. Through our partnership with GEA, we offer not only a complete valve program, but also technical advice and solutions for efficient CIP cleaning, including static and rotating spray balls.
Want to know more about how the right valve choice can improve your production? Don't hesitate to get in touch - we are happy to share our experience.
This text was written by Morgan Malm (morgan.malm@colly.se), Sales Manager at Colly Flowtech.
Here you can find our product range from GEAFrequently asked questions about valves
Why are valves important in food and pharmaceutical production?
They control the flow of liquids and gases in hygienic process lines. The valves ensure that production is controlled, safe and without contamination.
Which valve type is most commonly used in hygienic processes?
Seat valves and diaphragm valves are most common because they are easy to clean. They also meet strict hygiene requirements for both food and pharmaceuticals.
Why are the requirements for valve design so high?
To prevent bacterial growth and product contamination. Valve design affects both product quality and compliance with industry standards.
How is the cleaning of valves in production ensured?
With CIP and SIP systems, valves are cleaned automatically without disassembly. This reduces the risk of human error and saves time.
What materials are used in valves for food and pharmaceutical production?
Stainless steel, especially 316L, is common because of its corrosion resistance and hygienic properties. Seals are often made of materials such as EPDM or PTFE to withstand CIP/SIP processes.
Do you have any questions?
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