Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve

The Alfa Laval Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve is a pneumatic check valve that prevents vacuum conditions in high-temperature, short-time (HTST) pasteurization systems. Easily configured to fit virtually any requirement, this robust easy-to-clean-in-place valve is a cost-effective way to meet high standards of hygiene and aseptic compatibility across the dairy, food and beverage industries.

Vacuum breaker valve

Protect pasteurization piping and systems from vacuum conditions with Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve

  • Designed for convenient and effective CIP
  • Compact, fast-acting and fully automated valve
  • Exceptional valve hygiene and cleanability
  • Authorized to carry the 3-A symbol

The Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve ensures safe, efficient and cost-effective operation of HTST pasteurization piping and systems by preventing vacuum during all phases of production.

Built on a proven modular platform of the Unique SSSV small single seat valve, it is easy to select, easy to operate and easy to clean, requiring only a single air connection for Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) capabilities.

It can also be fitted with the Alfa Laval ThinkTop® V50 for sensing and control of the valve.

Exceptional valve hygiene

The Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve is engineered to provide excellent hygiene and cleanability, making it an ideal valve for pasteurization and other sanitary applications. The design of the plug supports enhanced cleaning-in-place (CIP) capabilities, and a double-acting lip seal that minimizes any risk of cross-contamination. If you’re asking what is a vacuum breaker, it’s a valve specifically designed for hygienic processes and is authorized to carry the 3-A symbol.

Extend valve service life

Get more uptime due to the unique seat design of the Alfa Laval Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve. This vacuum breaker, similar in function to a pneumatic check valve, is built for durability and reliability in demanding environments.

Low total cost of ownership

Thanks to its straightforward, reliable design, the Unique range of vacuum breaker valves provides long service life, reduced product loss, greater product safety, and more processing uptime. With few moving parts, this vacuum breaker reduces service requirements and inventory costs, making it a cost-effective solution for hygienic processing.

Valve control

The Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve can be fitted with the Alfa Laval ThinkTop V50 for sensing and control of the valve, ensuring proper valve function during CIP operations. This feature is especially important for maintaining hygiene and efficiency in systems that require a vacuum breaker valve or pneumatic check valve.

How it works

Construction

The Unique Vacuum Breaker Valve is a specialized valve for pasteurization, consisting of a stainless steel valve body, seals, actuator, an internal ball that moves up and down inside the valve chamber, and clamp rings. This vacuum breaker is ideal for applications requiring a reliable valve for pasteurization and hygienic processing.

Operating principle

If you’re wondering what is a vacuum breaker, the Alfa Laval Unique Vacuum Breaker operates in a manner similar to a pneumatic check valve. When pipelines are pressurized during a process or CIP, the internal ball is forced upward against its seat and closes the vent port, ensuring the system remains secure.

When pipeline pressure drops, the ball is drawn downward, allowing air to enter the vent and preventing vacuum in the system. This is a critical function of the vacuum breaker valve, protecting equipment and maintaining product quality.

During CIP, a pneumatic actuator is used (pulsed) to force the ball off the upper seat, enabling the seat and the interior of the vacuum breaker valve to be cleaned. CIP fluid is discharged during the actuator pulse and is drained through the vent port, ensuring thorough cleaning and hygienic operation.

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