In process engineering, storage tanks are needed to store raw materials and finished products. To meet today’s GMP requirements, these tanks are made of stainless steel.
Design and cleaning
Depending on the task, the vessels are designed as unpressurised or pressure-resistant tanks. In addition, they are unheated, heated or insulated, depending on the product.
Automatic CIP cleaning (Cleaning in Place) is of great importance. Depending on the product, the tanks undergo it in defined cycles. For pharmaceutical storage tanks, the CIP process is often followed by an SIP process (Sterilization in Place). It kills any microorganisms that may still be alive in the plant.
Instrumentation for optimal CIP cleaning
Suitable instrumentation is necessary for CIP cleaning to run optimally:
Circulation
The cleaning liquid circulates with the appropriate cleaning agents for the individual rinsing steps.
Temperature
The cleaning cycle only starts once the desired temperature has been reached.
Flow
Measurement in the pipes shows whether the required cleaning velocity is reached.
Conductivity
It optimises the degree of cleaning and keeps the detergent concentration within the desired range.
Level
The measurement ensures that enough cleaning medium is available for the upcoming cleaning.
Pressure
The pressure shows whether the system is working with the specified, repeatable setting.
Data acquisition: It documents the processes and monitors the alarm parameters.
Planning storage tanks holistically
These parameters are decisive for the quality of cleaning. After all, CIP cleaning is a central, quality-relevant process in the manufacture of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. That is why its documentation is so important.
The filling and draining lines are also part of the CIP/SIP processes. When designing storage tanks, all ambient conditions should therefore be taken into account – including the design of suitable pumps and transfer systems.
SEEFRIED Verfahrenstechnik GmbH supports you with the design, arrangement and instrumentation of your storage tanks as well as with the procurement of the systems.
Frequently Asked Questions about storage tanks and vessels
Which storage tanks are used in pharma and cosmetics?
GMP-compliant stainless steel tanks are used for raw materials and finished products – depending on the task unpressurised or pressure-resistant, unheated, heated or insulated.
How are storage tanks cleaned?
In defined cycles by automatic CIP cleaning, for pharmaceutical tanks often followed by SIP sterilisation. Filling and emptying lines are included.
Which instrumentation does a CIP-capable storage tank need?
Measurements of temperature, flow, conductivity, fill level and pressure are important, as well as data acquisition for documentation and alarm monitoring.
How do you support us?
We support the design, arrangement and instrumentation of storage tanks including suitable pumps, as well as procurement.