Key Considerations for Food Industry Pipework
When selecting or buying pipework for the food industry, there are several key considerations to keep in mind:
Material: The material used in pipework should be food-grade and suitable for contact with food. Stainless steel, food-grade PVC, and food-grade silicone are commonly used materials.
Cleanability: The pipework should be easy to clean and sanitize to meet food safety standards. Smooth surfaces without crevices or joints where food particles can accumulate are ideal.
Corrosion Resistance: Pipework should be resistant to corrosion, especially when handling acidic or corrosive food products. Stainless steel is often preferred for its corrosion-resistant properties.
Temperature Resistance: Consider the temperature requirements of your food processing operations and choose pipework that can withstand the required temperature range without degrading or affecting the food product.
Pressure Rating: Ensure that the pipework is designed to handle the necessary pressure levels without leaks or failures.
Compliance: Check that the pipework meets relevant industry standards and regulations for food safety, such as FDA regulations in the U.S. or EU food contact regulations.
Compatibility: Ensure that the pipework is compatible with the specific food products you will be handling to avoid contamination or reactions between the pipework material and the food.
Installation and Maintenance: Consider the ease of installation and maintenance of the pipework to minimize downtime and ensure efficient operations.
By considering these factors, you can select pipework that meets the requirements of the food industry in terms of safety, compliance, and efficiency.