Elastomers: A Beginner’s Guide

Elastomers: A Beginner’s Guide

Jul 5, 2011

Whether for a gasket, valve seat, or O-ring, the choice of elastomer might seem like a minor decision, but it can have a major impact. If a seal material is a poor fit for the application, you could run into any number of problems, from swelling, to peeling or cracking. Needless to say, these could be a big deal in a sanitary process. But how do you decide what elastomer to use?

How Long Should My Hose Last?

How Long Should My Hose Last?

Jun 14, 2011

A day, a week, a month—or maybe a year! What are your expectations? This is the most common question asked by customers regarding sanitary hose assemblies. The question itself is difficult (but not impossible) to answer due to the unique applications that vary from one facility to another. Some reasons for premature failure are...

Sanitary Air Blow Check Valves – Are They The Root of All Evil?

Sanitary Air Blow Check Valves – Are They The Root of All Evil?

May 18, 2011

For years, I have seen air blow check valves used on sanitary process lines, across many applications. They provide a very useful and sometimes necessary service: allowing a gas purge of process lines. However, they are also one of the most unsanitary devices allowed on a sanitary process line.

Out With the Old and… You Know the Rest

Out With the Old and… You Know the Rest

May 5, 2011

Over the years we have seen many changes in sanitary processing equipment, especially with smaller items like pumps, valves, etc. What is the reason for this? Let’s examine some possibilities.

Which Are Better: Mixproof Valves or Transfer Panels?

Which Are Better: Mixproof Valves or Transfer Panels?

Jan 24, 2011

Mixproof Valve technology is advanced enough to completely replace Transfer Panels. Manufacturers tout the fully-automated operation and smaller footprint of mixproofs, but many processors hold firm to the old standby of transfer panels. What’s your take? Have you made the switch, or is there something about Transfer Panels that you can’t give up? I’d love to hear your opinions.

What’s the Value of a Skid System?

What’s the Value of a Skid System?

Nov 9, 2010

When first considering your options for a new process design, one very important question to ask is: What’s the value of a skid system? There are many advantages to using a skid system, particularly for processing companies that intend to grow their business.  If the process is likely to be expanded in the future, the skid can be designed to accommodate...