Hard times for microorganisms

The bacteria filter of the SFDA series from SMC provides nearly completely germ-free compressed air with a filtration efficiency of 99.99%, making it ideally suited for various applications in the food industry. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

The hygiene requirements for processes are particularly high in the food industry. This also applies to the area of compressed air purity. Here, the concentration of bacteria or other germs should be kept as low as possible to ensure uncontaminated end products. Thanks to the new bacterial filter of the SFDA series from SMC, users can more easily meet the high standards of international norms in the food sector with a filtration efficiency of 99.99%. This also applies to the FDA-compliant materials used. Additionally, the new series helps save energy through low pressure drops while maintaining the same airflow strength.

A wide range of applications in the food industry rely on compressed air. In cases where it comes into direct contact with food or is used for cleaning, it must have as low a germ load as possible. To address this, automation specialist SMC has developed the bacterial filter of the SFDA series. It features, among other things, a filtration performance of LRV (Log Reduction Value) ≥ 9, allows a flow rate of 500 l/min (ANR) with a low pressure drop of 0.03 MPa, and is made from FDA-compliant materials. Users can thus meet important standards such as HACCP guidelines and FSSC 22000 standards. This applies, for example, to opening or keeping open during packaging, cleaning food, powder, or dough residues, injecting nitrogen to prevent oxidation of food, or for cooling processes of cooked or baked foods.

Almost germ-free compressed air

With a nominal filtration capacity of 0.01 μm, the bacterial filter of the SFDA series achieves a filtration efficiency of LRV ≥ 9, ensuring that the amount of bacteria in the exhaust air is reduced by 99.99%. This filtration capacity, verified by an independent research institute, ensures high-quality compressed air (including nitrogen) and thus low germ contamination – ideal for use in the food industry. To ensure optimal filtration performance, the bacterial filter requires already cleaned compressed air. Suitable sources include main line filters, dryers, microfilters, sub-microfilters, and activated carbon filters.

Meeting important standards

In addition to the internationally recognized FDA compliance, the media-contacting plastic and rubber parts of the SFDA series also meet the requirements of Japanese food legislation. Overall, the new bacterial filter from SMC helps users comply with both HACCP guidelines (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and FSSC 22000 standards (Food Safety System Certification). The latter includes a comprehensive certification system for food safety, which incorporates the requirements of ISO 22000.

Powerful – and energy-saving at the same time

Thanks to a highly efficient design, the SFDA series achieves a flow rate of 500 l/min (ANR) with a pressure drop of only 0.03 MPa (at an inlet pressure of 0.7 MPa at maximum flow). Users benefit from consistent airflow strength and save energy at the same time – which positively impacts costs. The operating pressure range is between -100 kPa and 1.0 MPa (0.99 MPa for nitrogen). Available with connection sizes RC 1/4, NPT 1/4, G 1/4, RC 3/8, NPT 3/8, and G 3/8, the weight is only 450 g (connection size 1/4) or
430 g (connection size 3/8).