Cleaning & Sterilising Systems - CIP, SIP and Autoclave

CIP & SIP – The primary consideration is whether the cleaning and purging cycle is likely to develop an electrostatic charge on the internal surface of the liner, in which case AS is required.

AS hose and Static charge generating systems are fully described in the hose liner section.

CIP systems using high electrical resistivity solvents like Toluene will require AS hose.

Another problem arises when the cleaning fluids or WFI or steam are purged out of the line using nitrogen, compressed air or another gas, because droplets of liquids or water in the gas then generate a multi-phase condition until they are cleared out, which will generate a static charge, and so will require AS hose.

In applications where an AS hose is not acceptable (in spite of the full approvals ratings) it will be necessary to consult with Aflex Hose for a solution.

Autoclave – Autoclave sterilisation does not normally involve any high flow rates through the hose bore, so static is not a problem. Bioflex grades GP and AS, with SS or HB braids can be autoclaved an indefinite number of times throughout their normal service life.

The rubber covered grades EPDM, (RC) and Silicone Rubber (RC, SI) are able to withstand at least 100 x 30 minute autoclave cycles at relatively high autoclave temperatures (121°C, 250°F or 135°C, 275°F). Consult Aflex Hose for more specific information.

PTFE HOSE - USE WITH ALKALI METALS, HALOGENS AND HALOGEN CONTAINING CHEMICALS

PTFE hose liners react chemically with Fluorine, Chlorine Trifluoride and molten Alkali Metals.

When PTFE lined hose is used to carry Chlorine or Bromine, either as gasses or fluids, they will diffuse into and through the PTFE liner wall thickness. Trace quantities will then combine with atmospheric moisture to corrode any braid/rubber outer coverings.

Heavily halogenated chemicals, like Hydrogen Fluoride, Hydrogen Chloride, Phosgene (Carbonyl Chloride) Carbon Tetrachloride and other organic chemicals with a high halogen content can also be absorbed and transmitted through the PTFE liner tube.

OTHER 'PENETRATING' FLUIDS AND GASES

Sulphur Trioxide, Methyl Methacrylate, Caprolactam and Glacial Acetic Acid are some other chemicals which can be absorbed and transmitted through the PTFE liner tube wall.

Generally, however, as a hydrophobic (non-wetting) material, PTFE is very resistant to the absorption of chemicals. In some cases, PTFE has superior resistance to diffusion, for example to the diffusion of automotive fuels, in comparison with all other plastics and rubbers.

GAS/FLUID CYCLING

There are some applications where the fluid passing through the hose turns into a gas, then back into a fluid, then into a gas etc, in a cyclic sequence.

This is normally associated with changes in temperature and/or pressure. For complex reasons these conditions are extremely damaging to the hose liner, whatever material it is made from.

For example, hoses are sometimes used to pass steam, water, steam etc into rubber moulding presses, in order to heat the mould, then rapidly cool it before reheating in the next cycle. Hoses of all types fail rapidly in such an application and PTFE lined hoses are no exception.

Please contact Aflex Hose for further information if these conditions apply.

CONNECTING ASSEMBLIES FOR USE IN APPLICATIONS

The lengths of hose assemblies and their configuration in use when connected into the application must always be in accordance with the Hose Configuration information at the end of this product literature.

When being connected for use in applications, the end fittings on hose assemblies must be connected to correct mating parts in the correct way, using the correct tools, spanners, clamps, nuts and bolts etc. The connections must be sufficiently tightened to ensure that the joint is leak free but not be over tightened as this can damage the sealing surfaces.

In applications involving the transfer through the hose of expensive or dangerous fluids or gases, the hoses and connections must be pressure tested in situ before being put in to service. This should be done with some harmless media to 1 1/2 times the maximum working pressure of the hose assembly, as stated in the product literature.

If in doubt please contact Aflex Hose for advice.

SPECIAL APPLICATIONS

Aflex Hose PTFE lined hose products are not rated as suitable for use in the following, special applications:

All Radioactive Applications involving high energy radiation, including Gamma radiation (degrades PTFE).

All Medical Implantation Applications.

All Aerospace Applications.