Engineered safety with the aseptic double-seal mixproof valve design

The Alfa Laval SMP-BCA creates a secure aseptic barrier by utilizing two seals on the same plug. In the space between these seals, a leakage chamber provides a dedicated path for fluid to escape if a seal is compromised, ensuring that contamination is detected before it can affect the product stream. This straightforward yet effective design ensures the safe separation of fluids in critical process lines. The valve is assembled using clamp rings and a stem clip system, which simplifies maintenance procedures and ensures consistent performance throughout its service life.

The core of its aseptic capability lies in the PTFE diaphragm unit. Unlike standard seals that can create areas for product entrapment, this diaphragm follows the movement of the upper valve body plug. This motion ensures there is no increase in the concentration of microorganisms during processing, making the valve suitable for extended shelf-life applications. The combination of a PTFE face and reinforced EPDM rubber backing provides the thermal resistance required for sterilization involving high temperatures while maintaining the mechanical flexibility needed for frequent cycling.

High-performance materials for pharmaceutical production

To meet the rigorous standards of modern processing, all product-wetted steel parts of the SMP-BCA are manufactured from 1.4404 (316L) stainless steel. Other steel components are made from 1.4301 (304). This choice of materials ensures corrosion resistance and longevity when exposed to various cleaning chemicals and process fluids. The standard internal surface finish is Ra ≤ 1.6 µm, with an optional bright polished finish of Ra ≤ 0.8 µm available for those requiring superior surface smoothness.

The valve's elastomer configuration is equally robust. While EPDM and PTFE are the standard product-wetted elastomers, NBR and PTFE are available as an option. This flexibility allows the SMP-BCA to be tailored to specific chemical compatibility requirements of the process, ensuring the seals remain effective under continuous operation in temperatures up to 140 °C.

Flexible configurations and technical data

The modularity of the SMP-BCA allows it to be configured as a shut-off valve, stop valve, or divert valve. It supports multiple connection standards including ISO clamp, ISO male, DIN male, SMS male, and BS male, ensuring it can be integrated into existing piping systems without extensive modification. For automated control, the valve is compatible with the ThinkTop V-Series, providing precise control and indication for the entire process line.

Pressure handling depends on the specific valve size. While the standard range is 0–8 bar (0–800 kPa), smaller sizes like the 38 mm and 51 mm models can handle inlet pressures up to 30 bar when using 3 bar support air. As sizes increase to 101.6 mm, the max inlet pressure is rated at 14.4 bar with support air. This tiered pressure capability allows engineers to select the exact valve size required for their specific flow rates and pressure demands without compromising safety.