Food Grade Pumps UK are used for transferring food and beverage products from one location to another. This could be unloading a rail car filled with syrup or transferring high temperature cooking substances like oil. Everyday goods require pumps in their manufacturing process, such as applying coatings to foods like chocolate on a pretzel. Whatever application you have, choosing the right food grade pumps in the UK is vital.
Some processing plants which handle food and beverage will have hundreds of different pumps to hand, including centrifugal pumps, self-priming pumps and more. When you are using pumps for food applications, there are certain hygiene standards and guidelines that must be met, and this is what makes some pumps food grade and others not. Here are our top 3 things to look for when choosing food grade pumps UK:
Manufactured From Approved Materials
When you manufacture food and beverage products in the UK, you must follow all the legal obligations when it comes to materials used in your equipment. If your products are shipped internationally, your pumps will need to comply with standards for all countries applicable. For example, European countries follow the European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG) standards, whilst the US requires pumps and materials to be FDA approved. 300-grade stainless steel is one of the most popular materials for food grade pumps UK because it is sterile and easy to clean.
Use The Right Lubricants
It isn’t just the materials of the pump itself that you need to be careful with, but all the other aspects as well. You must make sure your pump is using FDA-approved and food grade lubricants. Pump lubricant is required for protecting your equipment from friction, wear, oxidation, and corrosion, but it is crucial you are using a substance suitable for food applications.
Be Careful Of Shear
Depending on the type of food grade pumps you choose, you might need to consider if shear is going to be an issue with your products. Shear can change the consistency of a product because of excess pressure within the pump. Some food products require a pump which operates gently and doesn’t cause shear or changes to consistency. For example, yoghurt should be used in a gentle pump, as a high-speed pump could alter its consistency.
For more information on food grade pumps UK and to discuss your requirements, contact our team of specialists.
