Innovative Valve Interfaces Promote Productivity

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A New Valve Concept Demonstrates its Worth

Two typical disadvantages of ring systems are a large inner volume and an undefined flow pattern, both of which complicate the cleaning process. The Robolux design avoids these issues thanks to its small internal volume and directional flow. In steam sterilization, a Robolux valve interface reaches the required temperature in about half the time needed for conventional valves.

The concept presented jointly by Bürkert and Chemgineering enthused the specialists at B. Braun, and a new fluidics scheme was developed based on Robolux multi-port valves. However, the decision to use Robolux technology was not yet final. “The requirements of the life sciences industry are extremely high,” Equit explains. “We first had to demonstrate that we could deliver these complex valve interfaces with the surface quality defined by Basler Standard BN94.”

Reliable Valve Finishing Processes

Accordingly, Bürkert group company BBS-Systems of Wil, Switzerland, developed a way to electropolish the Robolux components reliably. With the workpiece immersed in a special electrolyte, direct current is used to remove a thickness 30 µm of metal, leaving a microscopically smooth surface. By modifying the standard process, BBS-Systems was able to electropolish even the complex interior of a 10-port Robolux valve.

Audits validated the electropolishing process and also the complete separation during Bürkert’s manufacturing process of products intended for the biotech sector. To prevent contamination following contact with other metals, these components are manufactured on a special line which handles only stainless steel. From raw materials receipt to shipping finished goods, separate storage systems keep the stainless steel components apart from other products.

Riboflavin Delivers the Proof

B. Braun also checked Bürkert’s production quality and standards compliance through a series of factory acceptance tests (FATs). As part of these tests, Bürkert developed a special rig using riboflavin (vitamin B2) to demonstrate the cleanability of the Robolux valves. Riboflavin testing depends on the fact that this substance is fluorescent, so even tiny traces show up under ultraviolet light. Such tests are often used to show that tanks and other vessels can be cleaned completely. They are not typically used for fluidic systems, where 3D flow simulations are normally thought to be good enough. Since even the best computer models cannot be 100% reliable, however, the decision was taken to include riboflavin testing in this case...

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