Steam in Place (SIP) is a powerful method of sterilisation. When you work with sanitary fittings, absolute sterility is often non-negotiable. Especially if your process handles perishable products, contamination must be eliminated. Steam in Place ensures that stainless steel tubings and stainless steel pipe fittings create a truly aseptic environment.
What is Steam In Place? Automated Sterilisation Capabilities!
What is Steam In Place (SIP) ? It is an automated sterilisation technique that uses high temperature, pressurised steam to flow through the internal surfaces of process equipment to eliminate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and spores. Steam flows over the internal surfaces of process equipment to eliminate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and spores.SIP works without dismantling the system. This method is common in the biopharmaceutical, food and dairy industries.
Key Benefits of Steam In Place
SIP uses heat to kill microorganisms and reach areas that chemicals may miss.
Automated SIP cycles are repeatable and they provide consistent sterilisation.
No manual handling of equipment is required. Human error is minimised and recontamination is prevented.
SIP significantly reduce labour costs. Sterilisation downtime is minimised and equipment is back up and running faster.
SIP uses mainly steam. Reduces the requirement for harsh chemicals and reduces waste water disposal.
Principles of Steam In Place: Heat as the Sterilant!
The basic principle of in situ steam is the use of saturated steam for heat transfer. Steam releases latent heat on cooler surfaces. It denatures the attached proteins to effectively kill microorganisms. Factors such as temperature, pressure and time are also important, as high temperatures and pressures, as well as prolonged release of heat, ensure that the microorganisms are killed completely.
Key SIP System Components
| Component Type | Function | Role in Pipe/Fittings System |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Steam Generator | Produces pure, dry, saturated steam | Supplies sterilizing medium |
| Steam Traps | Remove condensate, ensure dry steam | Prevent water hammer, maintain heat |
| Pressure Regulators | Control steam pressure | Ensure consistent sterilization conditions |
| Temperature Sensors | Monitor steam temperature | Verify critical sterilization parameters |
| Valves | Direct steam flow, isolate sections | Control steam path through pipe network |
| Piping Network | Transports sterile steam | Must withstand high temperature/pressure |
| Condensate Return System | Collects and returns condensed steam | Improves efficiency, water recovery |
| Control System | Automates cycle, monitors | Manages entire SIP sequence |
What We Do
Key SIP System Components
| Element Type | SIP Design Feature | Benefit for Sterilization |
|---|---|---|
| Piping Layout | Sloped for full drainability | Prevents condensate pooling |
| Pipe/Fitting Joins | Smooth, crevice-free welds | Eliminates microbial traps, ensures sterility |
| Valves | Self-draining, no dead legs | Prevents unsterilized areas |
| Gaskets | High-temp resistant, compliant | Maintains seal under heat/pressure |
| Surface Finish | Electropolished, smooth | Facilitates even heat transfer |
| Expansion Loops/Bellows | Accommodates thermal expansion | Prevents stress on rigid piping |
Materials for SIP Systems: Stainless Steel is Paramount!
Materials used in in-situ steam systems must be able to withstand high temperatures and pressures.
- 316L Stainless Steel: This low carbon grade of stainless steel is ideal. It resists intergranular corrosion, which is critical after high temperature exposure during the SIP process.
- 304L Stainless Steel: Used in less critical sections. Can handle normal steam exposure. Its low carbon content facilitates welding.
- Electropolished Surface: Provides an ultra-smooth surface that ensures complete sterility and prevents microbial adhesion after sterilisation.
- Sanitary Design: All components, including stainless steel pipe fittings, must meet standards for cleanliness, such as 3-A sanitary standards or ASME BPE.
You May Also Want To Read:
Master System Sterility with CIP and SIP Knowledge
What is Clean In Place (CIP) ?
Contact Us
- RM901 No.22 Tangjiaqiao Road Wenzhou China
- +86 577 8551 1171
- [email protected]
- https://www.kaysuns.com/
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