Technical Expertise

Better Hygiene & Process Security

We understand that pumps play a crucial role in enhancing hygiene and process security across various industries. Whether in the food and beverage sector, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or even water treatment facilities, maintaining high levels of hygiene and process security is paramount.

North Ridge have the capability to design and build bespoke pumps, to match your application. From AODD pumps and Progressing Cavity to Rotary Lobe Pumps many of the units we carry have third party hygienic accreditation of components such as FDA, 3A or EHEDG Approval.

Choosing the correct pump for hygienic processes

Sanitary Design

Pumps are available in a variety of designs, including sanitary and aseptic models. These pumps are engineered to meet stringent cleanliness and hygiene standards. Their smooth polished surfaces, minimal dead spaces, and materials that resist corrosion make them ideal for applications where product contamination must be avoided at all costs.

Precise Flow Control

Hygiene is closely linked to accurate dosing and mixing of fluids in many industries. Pumps enable precise flow control, ensuring that the right amount of materials is used in each step of the process, reducing waste and maintaining product quality.

Reduced Human Intervention

In processes where human contact with the product can lead to contamination, pumps minimise the need for manual handling. This not only enhances hygiene but also improves overall process security by reducing the risk of human errors.

Clean-in-Place (CIP) Systems

Many pumps are designed to work seamlessly with CIP systems. This feature simplifies the cleaning process by allowing automated, high-temperature cleaning cycles, ensuring that the pump itself remains free from contaminants.

Containment of Hazardous Materials

In pharmaceutical and chemical industries, the use of pumps helps contain and transport hazardous materials safely. This is critical for both process security and employee safety.

Process Validation

Pumps provide a reliable and documented method of transporting materials. This facilitates process validation, a vital aspect of ensuring that products meet regulatory and quality standards.

Seal and Gasket Selection

Pump technology allows for the selection of appropriate seals and gaskets, which can resist high temperatures, aggressive chemicals, and other environmental factors, contributing to both hygiene and process security.

Traceability

In highly regulated industries, the traceability of materials and ingredients is vital. Pumps equipped with sensors and monitoring systems can help track the movement of fluids through a process, ensuring that every step is accounted for and recorded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a hygienic pump and one which is certified?

A: A hygienic pump is a pump which is typically made from AISI 316 Stainless Steel which is designed to be effectively cleaned, with elastomers which are FDA or EC1935/2004 (ER Law governing food contact materials) Approved. These pumps are generally more cost effective than 3rd party approved pumps. A hygienically certified pump by 3A, EHEDG or FDA has met the stringent requirements of these standards through design, easy of cleaning, elimination of dead zones, level of polishing, traceability of materials, and gasket materials.

Q: Are plastic pumps suitable for hygienic applications?

A: Pumps manufactured from plastics are not suitable for hygienic applications as they can not be effectively cleaned or sanitised. Plastic is generally a soft material and be easily chipped or damaged and it can be difficult to detect if plastic enters the food chain.

If you are experiencing frequent downtime in your pumping application then get in touch and talk to our pump application advisor