Sanitary Plate Heat Exchanger Selection Guide: 22% Efficiency Gain in Food & Beverage Processing

Performance of sanitary plate heat exchangers hinges on gasket material and plate precision synergy. 2024 Texas Greek yogurt plant case study proved: Upgrading to 316L SS plates + EPDM gaskets reduced downtime by 22%.

Key parameter matching:

- Media temperature: EPDM suitable -20°C to +150°C (switch to Viton above 130°C)

- Pressure rating: Standard frames up to 1.0 MPa, high-pressure models to 2.5 MPa

- Surface finish: Food-grade Ra≤0.8μm (electropolished), non-food Ra≤1.6μm

Pressure limitation statement: BERCHANCE heat exchangers are strictly for medium/low-pressure applications:

- Maximum design pressure: 1.6 MPa @ 95°C (316L SS plates)

- Vacuum operation: Limited to -0.08 MPa and above

- Hydrotest: 1.5x design pressure held for 30 minutes

WARNING: Never use in chlorine/strong oxidizer environments — accelerates gasket degradation causing leaks.

North American certification requirements:

✓ ASME "U" Certification: Mandatory for vessels with PS×V > 50 bar·L

✓ 3-A Certification: Dairy contact surfaces require independent audit

✓ FDA 21 CFR 177: Compliance declaration for all polymer materials

Customer verification techniques:

1. Request plate material certificates (traceable to Outokumpu/ArcelorMittal mills)

2. Check if gaskets are laser-cut (hand-cut gaskets deform easily)

3. Confirm hydrotest videos show pressure gauge close-ups (accuracy class 1.6)

Project case: Texas yogurt plant 300kW heat exchanger

- Plates: 316L SS (0.6mm thickness, Ra=0.5μm)

- Gaskets: FDA-certified EPDM with food-grade blue identification

- Design conditions: 1.6 MPa @ 95°C

- Results: 22% less downtime after 14 months

BERCHANCE standard delivery package:

• Free thermal performance simulation report

• 24-month gasket warranty

• Complete manufacturing documentation package (hydrotest certificates + material traceability)