Different kinds of valves are employed in petrochemical and oil industries like the globe valves, main gate valves, safety valves, butterfly valves, pipeline valves, jacket valves, needle valves, and more. Similarly, the dairy, pharmaceutical, food & beverages, chemical, cosmetics, and brewing sector makes use of valves designed with sanitation in mind.

Sanitary valves are applied, where the sterile and clean process is mandatory. The valve material must be tough and have no cracks that can trap bacteria and contaminate the food or liquids processed. The surface that gets wet has to be polished and the radius has to be of minimum size, to avoid the entrapment or clinging off the media. Even if brass, plastic and other materials are allowed to be used in the sanitary application, the most preferred one is Stainless Steel.

Types of good industrial valves

On Flowtrend, you will find varieties of industrial valves with polished contact surfaces, crevice-free and easy to clean. Most of the sanitary applications include solids or/and thick viscous fluids, therefore it is crucial to create a smooth flow path. The connection of the valve needs to couple up with the piping uniformly with the help of clamp or welding.

A butterfly valve lacks internal voids or cavities, so it is used in common for sanitary fluid processing. Internal cavities can promote matter buildup that can cause bacterial contamination. Butterfly valves allow eliminating the contamination issue.

Double or single seated valves are also good sanitary options. Linear plug style valves having canister-style actuators help to avoid contagion. The plug design has no disc in the path of flow. The actuators are easy to clean than the industrial style rack & pinion actuator. Food plants have to wash the equipment frequently, so they need easily cleanable actuators.

Mix-proof valves can run a couple of products at the same time. It functions as two separate valves. Such dual valves avoid cross-contamination and spillage. The diaphragm valve is a good alternative for the pharmaceutical sector. There is nothing in the path of flow, so it can be sanitized and sterilized with ease. The diaphragm valve is a cost-effective option for extreme applications as the valve can be drained completely to avoid any locked in media.

Characteristics of a good sanitary valve

• No voids or internal cavities
• Smooth and unobstructed flow path
• The connections paired evenly to the piping
• Easy to disassemble for cleaning
• Ability to clean easily while piped inline
• Inert elastomers and metals so they cannot hinder the media or product
• Welded clamp connections can be removed easily from piping

Choose valves that adhere to legal standards and requirements.