Sanitary Steam Traps and the Role They Play in Temperature Validated Steam-in-Place

Sanitary Steam Traps and the Role They Play in Temperature Validated Steam-in-Place

This video explains the role of the steam trap in successful temperature-validated SIP. Courtesy of Steriflow. Click here to watch video.

Steam trap design and operation play a fundamental role in successful temperature-validated SIP. If the steam trap does not open at the correct time and temperature to drain condensate, it can adversely affect heat-up time and whether the temperature hold is successful. It will negatively affect your revenue because of asset startup delays if it isn't.

SIP (Sterilize, or Steam In Place) is timed sterilization of the upstream and downstream biopharmaceutical production train using clean Steam. It is part of a 5 step sanitization routine that occurs after every production batch and follows the final rinse after CIP (Clean In Place). SIP ensures that every square inch of the production train that comes in contact with drug substance inputs, drug substance, or the final drug product is "sterilized" to ensure no microbiological activity in the system.

Clean Steam (made from USP Purified Water) is circulated through all of the process tubing during this stage and enters large vessels through spray balls embedded in the vessel ceiling.

SIP is a temperature-validated process, meaning that sterilization events are proven by measuring the event's temperature and recording the data. The minimum sterilization regimen requires the injection of clean Steam into all piping and vessels for at least 1/2 hour after reaching a minimum temperature of 250°F (121°C). If the temperature falls below 250°F (121°C) during the temperature hold period, a temperature validation fault gets logged, and SIP repeats.

Validation temperature sensors (usually RTD's) are placed at the condensate outlets of process equipment to ensure that the sterilization temperature meets the specific regimen designed for the process system. The sensing elements are usually designed with integral sheathes and Tri-Clamp™ connections and clamp directly to tubing tees, or the element inserts into a Tri-Clamp™ thermowell connected to the tee. The sensors usually are twelve to eighteen (12 - 18) inches (300 - 450mm) upstream of the clean steam trap where the condensate exits the piping or vessel.

Hile Controls
800-536-0269

The Perma Pure Hybrid Sample Gas Cooler

Perma Pure Hybrid Sample Gas Cooler

Sample gas coolers condition the sample gas of an analyzing system by passing it through a heat exchanger and cooling it down. Removing any moisture from the gas is a critical step in sample gas conditioning, accomplished by using suitable coolers to lower the gas temperature below the dew point, allowing water to condense. The dew point must be as stable as possible for a repeatable analysis result even when the ambient temperature varies. Sample gas coolers have broad applicability in the cement, petrochemical, steel, power generation, and process industries.

The Perma Pure Baldwin Hybrid Sample Gas Cooler combines the superior performance of Perma Pure’s Nafion™ based drying technology with the functionality of a traditional thermoelectric cooler. Powered by compressed air, this nonelectric cooler achieves dew points lower than 0˚C, helping to prevent problems associated with condensation. The patented mechanical design is ideal for locations with limited or no access to power or other areas where a nonelectric product may be desirable.

For more infomration about Perma Pure Hybrid Sample Gas Coolers in Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, contact Hile Controls, Inc. Call 800-536-0269 or visit https://hilealabama.com.