The Alfa Laval Hygienic Line groups six model platforms into one hygienic plate heat exchanger family. The H4, H5, H8, HL8, HL12, and HL8 WideGap each target different capacities or media profiles. All share plate geometry tuned for flow distribution, gasket systems that prevent dead legs, and frames built to tolerate aggressive cleaning regimes without trapping residue.

How do CurveFlow and EquiFlow reduce fouling in sanitary plate heat exchangers?

Fouling drives downtime. On the H4, CurveFlow reshapes the distribution area at each port so media enters the plate channel along a smooth curve. Flow spreads more evenly across the full plate width, which lowers localised fouling and burn-on—common issues in dairy processing and beverage processing. EquiFlow appears alongside CurveFlow where both are offered, acting as the primary flow-distribution feature on the H5, H8, HL8, and HL12. It balances media velocity across the plate pack so every channel carries an equal share of flow. Equal velocity results in uniform heat treatment and minimal fouling.

SmoothPort design for drainability and CIP performance

Residual product trapped in port areas after a batch creates contamination risks. SmoothPort removes the ledges and crevices that collect deposits around plate port openings. Media drains fully under gravity, ensuring cleaning solutions reach every surface. This feature is standard on the H4, H5, H8, HL8, and HL8 WideGap. It works with CleanChannel to facilitate the removal of particles during cleaning, keeping the full plate channel clear of build-up.

ClipGrip and SteerLock: faster plate-pack maintenance

Gasket replacement and plate inspection are routine in any hygienic process line. ClipGrip is a clip-on gasket attachment that holds the gasket firmly during operation and releases without tools or adhesive during service. No glue means no curing time and no solvent residue on food-contact surfaces. SteerLock ensures reliable plate positioning and ease of service by locking each plate into correct alignment. On larger units like the HL12 or HL8, a five-point alignment system handles the greater plate weight and tighter dimensional tolerances. Bearing boxes and T-bar roller designs on HL8 frames facilitate opening and closing the unit for efficient maintenance.

WideGap models for viscous and particulate-laden media

Standard chevron-pattern plates handle low-viscosity fluids, but fruit preparations with pulp or dairy bases with fruit pieces require a wider channel. The HL8 WideGap uses plates with an open-channel pattern and an enlarged port so fibres and particles pass through without blockage. Channel gaps are configurable to optimize the process depending on fluid characteristics. WideGap plates allow for direct product-to-product heat recovery, which increases heat transfer efficiency by removing the need for an intermediate water loop.

Gemini double-wall plates for product security

Where cross-contamination between product and service media is unacceptable, the HL8 and H5 offer Gemini double-wall plate configurations. Each Gemini plate consists of two pressed sheets with an interstitial space between them that is accessible for inspection. If a leak develops in either sheet, the medium drains into this space and appears at the external leak port before mixing occurs. Gemini plates are manufactured in Alloy 316 and are fully cleanable on both product-contact faces.

Material credentials and regulatory compliance

Heat transfer plates are available in Alloy 316 and Titanium. Alloy 316 covers the majority of dairy, beverage, and pharmaceutical applications, while Titanium suits aggressive media. Field gaskets are produced in NBR and EPDM, both produced in compliance with FDA regulations. Frame and pressure plates are available in solid stainless steel, cladded stainless steel, or carbon steel with epoxy painting. All models can be manufactured according to 3A certification. Pressure vessel compliance includes pvcALS and PED across the range, with ASME available on the H8.