Considerations for Using Stainless Steel Pipes in Food Processing

Requirements for Pipe Materials in the Food Processing Industry

• Hygiene and Safety Standards

Stainless steel pipe materials used in food processing should comply with hygiene and safety standards to ensure food quality and consumer health.

The national standard for hygienic stainless steel pipes is GB/T 19228.2-2011, which specifies hygiene standards for stainless steel pipes, including surface treatment and material requirements.

• Requirements for Food Contact Materials

Stainless steel pipelines in contact with food should meet the corresponding requirements for food contact materials to prevent material migration and food contamination.

GB 4806.9 standard specifies requirements for food contact materials, including stainless steel pipelines.

Advantages of Stainless Steel Pipes in Food Processing

• Corrosion Resistance

• Non-Toxicity and Odorlessness

Stainless steel pipe materials are non-toxic and do not affect the taste of food, preserving the original quality of food.

EN 10088-1 standard specifies material chemical composition requirements for stainless steel, ensuring the absence of harmful substances.

• Ease of Cleaning

Stainless steel pipe surfaces are smooth and do not readily adsorb food residues, making them easy to clean and maintain.

ASTM A270 standard specifies the quality requirements for the inner and outer surfaces of stainless steel pipes.

• High-Temperature Stability

Stainless steel pipes exhibit good high-temperature stability, suitable for high-temperature food processing processes.

ASTM A213 standard specifies high-temperature performance testing methods for stainless steel pipes.

Consideration Factors and Impacts

• Types of Stainless Steel Pipe Materials

In the food processing industry, commonly used stainless steel pipe materials include 304, 316, 321, and others. Different materials have varying chemical compositions and performance characteristics, necessitating rational selection based on specific usage environments and requirements.

• Corrosion Resistance of Materials

Food processing often involves corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, and salts, making corrosion resistance of stainless steel pipe materials a critical consideration.

• Pipeline Size and Layout

In food processing, pipeline size and layout play a vital role in fluid flow and transportation. According to national standards, pipeline dimensions should meet design requirements, ensuring adequate flow and pressure for food processing.

• Cleanability and Maintenance

The food processing industry demands high cleanliness of pipelines, as residue accumulation within pipes may impact food safety. Therefore, pipeline design should consider cleanability to prevent build-up and stagnation.

• High-Temperature Processing and Low-Temperature Storage

During food processing, high-temperature treatments and low-temperature storage may be necessary. Hence, stainless steel pipe materials must exhibit excellent high-temperature and low-temperature performance to maintain stability under varying temperature conditions.

Food processing pipelines may experience different pressure levels, making pressure ratings and pipeline strength requirements important factors to consider.

• Strength and Rigidity of Stainless Steel Pipes

In the food processing industry, pipelines must withstand certain pressures and loads. Therefore, the strength and rigidity of stainless steel pipes are critical considerations.

• Pressure Resistance of Stainless Steel Pipes

During food processing, pipelines may experience varying pressures, making pressure resistance of stainless steel pipes an important consideration.

Stainless Steel Pipe Selection and Usage Recommendations

• Selecting Stainless Steel Pipe Materials Based on Food Properties

In the food processing industry, different foods have different properties and compositions. Therefore, the characteristics of food should be considered when choosing stainless steel pipes.

• Selecting Stainless Steel Pipe Specifications Based on Process Requirements

During food processing, the specifications and dimensions of stainless steel pipes play a crucial role in fluid flow and transportation.

• Regular Inspection and Maintenance of Stainless Steel Pipelines

To ensure the safety and hygiene performance of stainless steel pipelines, regular inspection and maintenance are necessary.

International Standards and Best Practices

• International Standards

In the food processing industry, international standards provide guidance and regulations for the selection and use of stainless steel pipes. Common international standards include ASTM and EN standards.

•  Best Practice Cases

In addition to international standards, successful food processing projects offer best practice cases that can serve as references. These cases include experience sharing in material selection, optimization of pipeline design, and more.

In summary, the food processing industry considers factors such as food properties, process requirements, and regular inspection and maintenance when selecting stainless steel pipes. International standards and best practice cases provide guidance and references for the selection and use of stainless steel pipes. By choosing stainless steel pipe materials and specifications wisely and performing regular inspections and maintenance, safety, hygiene, and reliability can be ensured during the food processing process.

ASTM Standards

Chinese National Standards