A

Absolute pressure

Absolute pressure is the total pressure measured in relation to an absolute vacuum - zero pressure. It is typically used when precision and comparability are crucial, for example in pharma and vacuum processes. Unlike relative pressure, absolute pressure also includes the contribution of the atmosphere.

Axial seal

An axial seal seals longitudinally along the axis of the shaft and is typically used to prevent leakage in systems with moving components. It is particularly relevant where space is limited and the seal must be able to handle both pressure and axial movement. Axial seals are often found in pumps, valves and pressure vessels.

Actuator

An actuator converts energy into motion - typically to open, close or regulate a valve. It can be pneumatic, electric or hydraulic and is a key component in automated process plants. The choice depends on speed, power and control requirements.

Actuator - A/A

A/A stands for "air to air" and describes a double-acting pneumatic actuator where both opening and closing are controlled by air pressure.

 

Actuator - NC

NC means "normally closed". An NC actuator keeps the valve closed without air pressure and only opens when it is activated "Apply air pressure". This is a safety advantage in many applications, as the valve will always be closed until it is activated.

 

Analogue (signal)

An analogue signal is a continuous electrical signal where the value can vary between minimum and maximum, often by 4-20 mA. It is used to transmit physical measurements such as temperature, pressure, flow or level from instruments back to the controller.

 

Aseptic

Aseptic means free of microorganisms - and is about preventing contamination in sterile processes. It's crucial in pharma, biotech and food production, where even small contaminations can have big consequences. Equipment and design must ensure an unbroken, clean process.

 

ASI (Bus)

ASI stands for Actuator Sensor Interface - a digital bus system that connects sensors and actuators in the field to the control system via a single cable. This simplifies installation, reduces cabling and speeds up troubleshooting.

Atmospheric pressure

In the process industry, atmospheric pressure is the pressure of the air surrounding equipment, tanks and pipework. It is used as a reference for measuring overpressure or vacuum and it affects e.g. flow, pumping and pressure control in processes. At sea level it is typically around 1 bar, but can vary with weather and altitude.

Air motor

An air motor is powered by compressed air instead of electricity. It is compact, explosion-proof and easy to regulate. Often used in classified areas where there are requirements for ATEX approval or where you want simple mechanics and high reliability.

Abrasive media

Abrasive media contains particles that can wear down equipment, such as sand, sugar or crystals. They require particularly durable materials and sealing solutions to ensure long life and reliability.

B

Balanced shutter cone

Balanced shutter cones are designed to equalise the pressure in the valve on both sides of the shutter. This construction ensures that the shutter is not affected by fluid pressure or shock in both directions. As a result, the valve will open and close more stably, reducing wear and tear.

Balanced sealing

A balanced mechanical shaft seal reduces the hydraulic pressure on the sliding surfaces by equalising the part of the process pressure that normally creates axial load. This reduces both heat generation and wear between the sliding surfaces, resulting in longer lifetime, high reliability and more stable performance in processes with high demands on hygiene and sterility

Bus communication

Bus communication is a method where multiple devices - such as sensors, actuators and control systems - share the same data line. This makes installation simple and flexible and ensures that data can be exchanged quickly and efficiently between the components of an automated system.

C

Centrifugal pump

A centrifugal pump is a pump that moves fluid using a rotating impeller that creates centrifugal force and pressure. Ideal for continuous flows with low viscosity (1 to 480 cP)
In the food and pharma industry, it is often used to transport liquids gently, hygienically and continuously, often with CIP-friendly designs for easy cleaning and minimal risk of contamination.

CIP

CIP stands for Clean-In-Place and refers to automatic cleaning of process equipment without the need to disassemble the equipment. This ensures consistent hygiene and reduces downtime. CIP is especially used in the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries where the demands for cleanliness are high.

 

CIP system

A CIP system is a dedicated system that delivers cleaning fluid to pipes, tanks and process equipment. It precisely controls temperature, flow and chemicals - and makes it easy to document cleaning processes. It is a cornerstone of hygienic and safe production.

Control Unit

A control unit shows the current status of the valve or actuator - for example, whether it is open or closed. It provides visual or electrical feedback and is important in automated systems where monitoring and safety are key.

Cavity

A cavity is a hidden pocket in equipment where liquid or product can accumulate. It can be caused by a surface defect on pipes, dead zones in pipework and valves or incorrect choice of gaskets and joints. It can pose a hygienic risk as it is difficult to clean. Therefore, voids are undesirable in hygienic design and are counteracted in EHEDG approved equipment.

 

Capacity

Capacity describes how much a system - such as a pump or a valve - can handle per unit of time. It can be measured in litres per minute or cubic metres per hour and is crucial for correctly sizing equipment in a flow system.

Cavitation

Cavitation occurs when the pressure in a liquid drops so much that vapour bubbles form - which later collapse and create small shock waves. This can damage pumps and valves. Preventable with correct inlet pressure and pump selection.

 

Ceramic

Ceramic materials are used in process equipment where high demands are placed on wear resistance, temperature tolerance and chemical resistance. Typically used in the sealing surfaces of shaft seals or in valve seats and especially in abrasive or aggressive environments.

 

Commercial seal

A commercial seal is a standard seal without specific documentation for sterility or traceability. Used primarily in non-regulated applications where hygiene and validation requirements are lower than in pharma, for example.

Contamination

Contamination means that a product becomes contaminated - for example with bacteria, foreign bodies or residues from previous production. It can have major consequences, especially in food and pharma, and is prevented through hygienic design and proper cleaning.

Check valve

A non-return valve allows flow in one direction and prevents backflow. It protects equipment and processes from contamination and pressure surges.

 

Control

Control is about monitoring and adjusting process parameters such as pressure, flow and temperature. This is done via sensors, valves and control systems and is essential for safe, efficient and stable operation.

Control top

A globe valve closes tightly against a seat and is used to regulate or shut off flow. It is simple, robust and hygienic - and one of the most widely used valve types in the process industry.

Control valve

A control valve adjusts flow, pressure or temperature in a process - steplessly and precisely. It is often controlled via positioner or signal and is central to automated systems where stability and control are crucial.

Cross-contamination

Cross-contamination occurs when residues of a product, substance or bacteria are transferred from one process to another. It can be harmful to health and violate GMP principles. Preventable with proper design, CIP and valve changes.

Carbon fibre

Carbon is used in mechanical seals and bearings due to its abrasion and chemical resistance. It withstands high temperatures and is self-lubricating - therefore it is often used in dynamic seals and high load applications.

D

Density/density

Density - also called specific gravity - is an expression of how much a given amount of liquid or gas weighs. It is typically measured in kg/m³ and is crucial for pipe loss calculations.

Differential pressure

Differential pressure is the difference between the pressure at two measuring points - for example, before and after a filter, pump or control valve. It is used to ensure correct selection of the individual component. Furthermore, it can be used as an important measuring point in both maintenance and process optimisation.

 

Digital (signal)

A digital signal is a signal that can only have two or more discrete values, typically ON/OFF or 0/1.

In the process industry, digital signals are used to control and monitor components such as valves, pumps, alarms and sensors, deciding whether equipment should be active or inactive

Double mechanical seal

A double mechanical seal has two sealing faces with a gap in between. One set towards the process side and one set towards the atmosphere side. It requires flushing/cooling with pressurised liquid or gas. This type of seal provides extra security against leakage, especially in hazardous or critical media where a single set of seals is not enough.

Double seat valve

A double-seat valve has two seals that effectively separate media - often with a drainable leakage zone in between. It is used in processes where you want to avoid cross-contamination and ensure easy-to-clean changeover.

Drive ring

A drive ring holds the shaft seal in place and ensures proper functioning of the seal in dynamic applications. It protects the shaft seal from damage and deformation and is important for both lifetime and reliability.

Dynamic sealing

A dynamic shaft seal is used where there is movement - for example in rotating shafts or pistons. It must both seal tightly and keep up with the movement without wearing too much. Material and design are selected according to speed, pressure and media type. available in single or double versions

Diaphragm pump

A diaphragm pump moves fluid by moving a flexible membrane back and forth. It can handle aggressive, viscous or sensitive media - and is popular in both hygienic and industrial processes where gentle and precise flow is required.

Dry running

Dry running occurs when a pump runs without fluid - which can cause overheating and damage. This is avoided with proper control and monitoring, for example via level or flow sensors.

E

EHEDG

EHEDG stands for European Hygienic Engineering and Design Group, an organisation that works to ensure food safety through hygienic design of food production equipment. They develop guidelines and certify equipment that meets strict hygiene requirements, making it easy to clean and minimising the risk of contamination

External seal

An external gasket is placed outside the media-affected area and protects against leakage, often in combination with a flushing function. It is used where you want easy access and visual inspection without compromising the process

Elastomer

Elastomer is an elastic, rubbery material often used in process equipment to ensure proper sealing between two components. O-rings and sealing rings are often used to ensure tight joints between components. Must be selected based on the process medium, temperature and cleaning process.

F

FDA

FDA stands for Food and Drug Administration - the US authority that, among other things, approves materials for food and pharmaceutical use. FDA approval is a seal of quality that shows that the material is safe in contact with sensitive products.

 

FKM

FKM is a type of fluoroelastomer - known by names like Viton® - and is used for seals with high chemical resistance. It withstands high temperatures and aggressive media, making it ideal for demanding process environments.

Flow equipment

Flow equipment refers to components that control, measure or transport liquids and gases - such as valves, pumps, flow meters and hoses. Equipment selection depends on media, pressure, temperature and hygiene requirements.

Flow characteristics

Flow characteristics refer to the properties and patterns, that describes The movement of a fluid (either a liquid or a gas). These are the ways, How the fluid flows and how its speed, pressure and direction change over time and space.

Frequency converter

A frequency converter regulates the speed of an electric motor by changing the frequency of the current. If the frequency is lowered, the speed of the motor is lowered.

Flooded inlet

A flooded inlet means that the liquid naturally flows to the pump by gravity - without the use of suction. This ensures a stable supply, reduces the risk of cavitation and extends the life of the pump.

Flushed shaft seal

A flushed shaft seal is provided with an external flushing fluid that either removes product residues or cools the sliding surfaces at high temperatures. This reduces wear, minimises the risk of leakage and extends the seal's lifetime. The solution provides high reliability - especially with aggressive, hot or hygiene-sensitive media.

Flushed seal

Flushed seal generally refers to any seal type where a flushing medium - typically water or liquid - is introduced to protect and clean the seal. Often used in applications with a risk of clogging or product build-up.

G

Gauge pressure/Overtryk

Gauge pressure (also called overpressure) is measured relative to atmospheric pressure - that is, the additional pressure in a closed system. It is widely used in industry and is often expressed in bar(g). This differs from absolute pressure, which is measured relative to vacuum.

Geared motor

A gearmotor combines an electric motor with a gear system and is used to achieve lower speed and higher torque. It ensures stable and controlled movement - for example, in agitators, conveyor belts and valve controllers.

GMP

GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practice and is a set of requirements and guidelines for safe and controlled production - especially in the pharma and food industry. It's about traceability, documentation and quality - and affects both design and operations.

 

Grit

Grit is an expression for the grain size of abrasive materials and is used in surface treatment or polishing, for example. The higher the grit number, the finer the surface. In process equipment, surfaces with high grit values are important for cleanability and hygiene.

Gauge pressure

Overpressure - also called gauge pressure - is the pressure measured relative to atmospheric pressure. It is often displayed in bar(g) and is used in most industrial applications. It differs from absolute pressure, which is calculated from vacuum.

H

Head

Head: Shows the pressure a pump can deliver, typically expressed in metres of liquid column. Head is used to assess how far and how high the fluid can be transported and includes both the static and dynamic pressure in the system.

Heating/cooling jacket

A heating or cooling jacket is a jacket around a tank, container or pipe. The jacket is used to heat or cool the medium. It ensures a stable temperature and uniform process - typically in sensitive productions such as pharma and food.

High purity

High cleanliness is about materials, surfaces and design that meet strict hygiene and sterility requirements - especially in pharma and biotech. This means smooth surfaces, documented traceability and CIP/SIP cleaning options.

Heat exchanger

A water discharger removes condensation from steam or compressed air systems without letting steam or air escape.

 

I

Impeller

An impeller is the rotating element in a centrifugal pump that creates flow and pressure. Its shape and size have a big impact on the pump's performance - and is chosen based on media and desired capacity.

Inlet pressure

Inlet pressure is the pressure that the fluid has before it enters a component, such as a pump or valve. It must be monitored to ensure proper operation and avoid cavitation or equipment damage.

Internal shaft seal

An internal mechanical shaft seal is located on the media side - directly in contact with the fluid. It is compact and protected from the environment, but can be harder to access for maintenance. Often used where hygiene and space are important factors.

Instrumentation

Instrumentation refers to measuring equipment such as pressure transmitters, flow meters and temperature sensors. It is used to monitor and control processes - and plays a key role in automation, documentation and safety.

Interface

An interface is the point where two systems meet and communicate - for example between controller and sensor. It can be digital, analogue or via bus communication. A well-functioning interface ensures stable and accurate data sharing.

IP converter

An IP converter converts an electrical signal (I = current, e.g. 4-20 mA) into pneumatic pressure (P = pressure). It is typically used to control pneumatic actuators based on a control signal - and is essential in many automated systems.

K

KV value

The KV value indicates how much water (in m³/h at 1 bar pressure drop) can flow through a valve. It is used to compare and size valves - the higher the KV, the greater the flow capacity.

L

Laminar flow

Laminar flow means that the fluid moves in parallel layers without turbulence. It provides smooth and even flow - ideal for sterile and controlled processes where precise flow is required.

Lip seal ring

A lip seal is an elastic seal with a flexible edge ("lip") that is pressed against a shaft or surface. It keeps liquid or gas in - and dirt out - and is often used in dynamic applications with rotation or movement.

Lip seal ring - double

A double lip seal has two sealing lips, often with the option of gap lubrication or pressurisation. This increases safety and protects against leakage - especially in applications with high demands on hygiene and process control.

Leakage chamber

A leak chamber is a controlled space between two seals where any leakage can be collected or monitored. This increases safety and allows problems to be detected before they develop. Often used in double seal or aseptic valves.

Lifting height/suction

Head describes the height from the liquid surface to the pump inlet - and affects how easily the liquid can be sucked in. Too much head can lead to cavitation and reduced pump performance.

Liquid

Fluid is a liquid medium - such as water, oil or product - that is transported, treated or dosed in process plants. Its properties (e.g. viscosity, density and temperature) have a major impact on the choice of equipment and materials.

Liquid film

A fluid film is a thin layer of liquid that covers a surface - and can be both desirable (lubrication) or undesirable (contamination). In hygienic design, it is important to ensure that liquid films can be effectively removed during cleaning.

Liquid ring pump

A liquid ring pump uses a liquid-filled ring to create a vacuum and transport gas or liquid. It is robust, self-priming and can handle both air and liquid mixtures - ideal for demanding or humid environments.

 

M

Mechanical shaft seal

A mechanical shaft seal prevents leakage between a rotating shaft and a stationary component - for example in a pump. It typically consists of two smooth surfaces pressed against each other and is used in high pressure or temperature applications.

Minimum waste

Minimising waste is about designing processes and equipment to reduce product waste and media consumption. This applies to changeover, cleaning and daily operations - and is important for economy, sustainability and documentation.

Mixproof

Mixproof means that two media - e.g. CIP fluid and product - are kept completely separate in the same valve via two independent seals and a leakage chamber. This ensures high hygiene and enables simultaneous operation, or CIP, of multiple lines without the risk of cross-contamination.

 

Mixproof valve

A mixproof valve is built to separate incompatible media safely and efficiently. It has two seals with an intermediate zone where any leakage can be detected. Typically used in automated plants with frequent product and cleaning changes.

N

NPSH

NPSH stands for Net Positive Suction Head and is about the pressure available (or required) at the pump inlet to avoid cavitation. It is a key factor in pump design and selection - and is divided into NPSHa and NPSHr.

NPSHa

NPSHa means Available - the NPSH that is actually available in the system. It depends on the pressure, temperature and altitude of the fluid. Must always be higher than NPSHr to ensure stable operation and avoid cavitation.

NPSHr

NPSHr stands for Required - This is the NPSH the pump needs to operate without cavitation. It is provided by the manufacturer and depends on pump geometry and speed. An important figure when selecting and installing pumps.

O

Output/Output power

Output - also called output power - describes the amount of energy, flow or signal a device delivers. It can be anything from a motor that outputs power to a sensor that sends a measurement signal through the system.

Output power/Output

Output power - or output - describes the energy, signal or flow that a device delivers. It can be a motor's power in kW or a sensor's signal in mA. Used to assess performance and system capacity.

P

Peristaltic pump

A peristaltic pump moves fluid by squeezing a hose between rolling rollers. This provides gentle and precise dosing without the media touching the pump's internal parts - ideal for sterile, aggressive or particle-laden liquids.

PLC

PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller and is the brain of many automated plants. It controls processes, monitors signals and communicates with sensors and actuators - all in real time and with high reliability.

 

Pneumatic

Pneumatic means that something is powered by compressed air - for example actuators, valves or tools. Pneumatic is reliable and fast, and is widely used in automated processes where electrical solutions are not desirable or possible.

Positioner

A positioner controls the precise opening of a valve based on a control signal - often 4-20 mA. It ensures accurate regulation and is used when precise flow control is required in dynamic processes.

Positive lift height/suction

Head describes the height from the liquid surface to the pump inlet and affects how easily the liquid can be sucked in. The higher the positive inlet, the better the pumping conditions will be, which also improves NPSH conditions.

Piston pump

A piston pump creates pressure and flow by moving a piston back and forth in a chamber. It delivers precise and pulsating flow and is often used for dosing small volumes or in high-pressure applications.

Press

Pressure is the force that a liquid or gas exerts on a surface - measured in bar or pascal, for example. It is a fundamental parameter in process plants and is important for both safety and flow control.

 

Pressure - differential

Pressure is the force that a liquid or gas exerts on a surface - measured in bar or pascal, for example. It is a fundamental parameter in process plants and is important for both safety and flow control.

Pressure drop

Pressure drop describes the loss of pressure that occurs when a liquid or gas moves through pipes, valves or filters, for example. It affects energy efficiency and must be taken into account when dimensioning.

 

Pressure inlet

Pressurised inlet means that the fluid is fed to the pump with a positive pressure - typically from a tank located above the pump. This contributes to a stable supply and minimises the risk of cavitation.

Pressure regulator

A pressure regulator ensures constant output pressure even if the input pressure varies. It protects equipment, ensures consistent operation and is used in both gas and liquid systems.

Pressure surge

Pressure surges are sudden increases in pressure - often caused by the rapid closing of a valve. It can damage pipes, pumps and valves and is preventable with proper design and damping.

Pressure loss

Pressure loss describes the total reduction in pressure through a system - caused by friction, components and flow resistance. It is crucial to know in order to optimise energy consumption and system design.

Pressure outlet

A pressure tap is a point in the system where pressure can be measured or tapped - for example to a sensor or a test valve. It is strategically placed to monitor operation and ensure proper control.

R

Rated speed

Rated speed is the speed a motor or pump is designed to run at under normal operating conditions. It provides a stable starting point for performance and energy consumption - and is used as a reference for sizing and control.

Ra

Ra (Roughness Average) is a measure of surface roughness and is used to describe how smooth a surface is - for example in pipes and valves. In hygienic applications, Ra < 0.8 µm is typically standard to ensure easy cleaning and minimise bacterial growth.

Radial seal

A radial seal fits tightly around a rotating shaft via a sealing lip across the shaft diameter. It is used to keep media in and dirt out in dynamic applications. Often seen in motors, pumps and gears.

Reynolds number

Reynolds number indicates whether a flow is laminar, turbulent or in between. It is calculated from the fluid's velocity, viscosity and pipe diameter and is used to predict how the medium behaves in a system.

Rheology

Rheology is the study of how liquids and soft materials flow and deform. It is important in processes with viscous or sensitive products - where proper handling ensures product quality and consistency.

Rotary lobe pump

A rotary lobe pump transports liquid by two lobes (blades) rotating against each other without touching. It is gentle and hygienic - and therefore ideal in the food and pharma industry where low product stress is important.

Rotor

A rotor is the rotating part of a machine - for example in a pump or motor. It transfers energy and creates movement or pressure. The shape and speed of the rotor has a significant impact on the performance and stability of the equipment.

S

Shaft seal

A shaft seal prevents liquid or gas from leaking along a rotating shaft, for example in pumps or agitators. It is essential for ensuring safety, hygiene and efficient operation in process plants. The choice of seal type depends on operating parameters such as pressure, temperature and the properties of the medium.

Shear rate

Shear rate indicates how fast fluid layers move relative to each other and is key in viscous fluids. It influences things like pump selection and material choice, as too high a speed can degrade the product or wear out equipment.

Solenoid valve

A solenoid valve is an electromagnetic coil that activates a mechanical movement, such as opening or closing a valve. It is used in automated systems where control with current voltage and not just air is desired.

 

Surface roughness

Surface roughness indicates how smooth or rough a surface is - measured in micrometres (µm). In hygienic design, low roughness is important as it prevents bacterial growth and makes cleaning easier. Typical requirement in pharma is Ra < 0.8 µm.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy that is easy to clean and withstands aggressive media. It is standard in food and pharma production where hygiene and durability are crucial. Typical grades used are acid-resistant 316L.

Seat lift

Seat lift refers to the opening of the valve seat to enable flow - typically for cleaning or maintenance. It ensures that all surfaces are accessible for CIP/SIP.

Seat valve

A globe valve closes tightly against a seat and is used to regulate or shut off flow. It is simple, robust and hygienic - and one of the most widely used valve types in the process industry.

Sensor

A sensor measures physical values such as pressure, temperature, flow or level and converts them into signals. It is central to automated systems and ensures accurate monitoring and control of processes.

Shear

Shear - or displacement - describes the force that occurs when fluid layers move at different speeds. Excessive shear can damage viscose or sensitive products and should therefore be controlled in pump and mixer applications.

Safety valve

A safety valve protects pressurised equipment against overpressure by automatically opening when a predefined pressure is exceeded. It is mandatory equipment in a pressurised equipment.

Silicon carbide

Silicon carbide (SiC) is a very hard and durable ceramic material often used in mechanical shaft seals and valve seats. It has high thermal stability and resistance to aggressive media, making it suitable for demanding process environments where pressure, temperature and chemical stress are high.

SIP

SIP stands for "Sterilise-In-Place" and means that the process equipment is sterilised with steam without being disassembled. SIP is especially used in pharma and biotech, where sterile conditions are crucial.

Screw pump

A screw pump conveys fluid using one or more rotating screws that create a continuous displacement. It can handle both high-viscosity and sensitive media and delivers a smooth, almost pulse-free flow, making it particularly suitable for gentle and stable process applications.

Specific gravity/specific gravity

Specific gravity is a dimensionless number that describes the ratio between the weight of a liquid and the weight of water at the same temperature.

Static sealing

A static seal remains at rest and is sealed by compression - typically between two fixed surfaces. Used in flanges, covers and fittings where there is no movement in the seal.

Stator

A stator is the stationary part of a pump that co-operates with a rotor. In progressive cavity pumps, the stator is in an elastic martriale and is moulded around the rotor to create a seal between the two units.

Sump

A sump is a low-lying collection container where liquid or spillages are collected before being pumped out. It is often used in CIP systems or for drainage in process equipment.

T

Tri-Clamp

Tri-Clamp is a hygienic pipe connection used to quickly and safely assemble components. It is easy to clean and approved for use in food and pharma - a standard choice in sterile processes.

 

Turbulent flow

Turbulent flow occurs when the fluid moves irregularly and swirling - typically at high speeds. It can increase heat transfer, but also cause pressure loss and wear in the system.

Tungsten carbide

Tungsten carbide is a very hard and durable material often used in mechanical shaft seals and bearings. It withstands high pressure, heavy wear and high temperatures, making it ideal for demanding applications with abrasive or aggressive media.

V

Vapour pressure

Vapour pressure is the pressure at which a liquid evaporates at a given temperature and pressure. It is important to know in heating or vacuum processes where you need to avoid accidental vaporisation. Relevant data is used for process equipment selection.

Vacuum

Vacuum occurs when the pressure in a system is lower than atmospheric pressure. It is used to transport, pull or stabilise products. Vacuum equipment requires special designs, materials and seals.

Valves (sanitary)

Sanitary valves are designed for use in hygienic production - e.g. food, beverage and pharma. Depending on the specific application, they can, for example, have smooth surfaces, be drainable, have CIP/SIP capability and documentation that meets strict requirements for cleanliness and traceability.

Valve manifold

A valve manifold consolidates multiple valves into one unit - saving space, simplifying installation and making it easier to manage complex process lines with multiple product paths.

Viscosity

Viscosity describes how “viscous” a fluid is - its resistance to flow. It affects the choice of pumps, pipe dimensions and flow control, and is important in everything from oil and chocolate to creams and chemicals.

W

Worm pump

A worm pump also called a progressive cavity pump or eccentric worm pump. Is a positive displacement pump that transports product by means of a rotating screw/rotor that moves inside an elastic stator. Can handle viscosities from 1 to 500,000 cP.

Waste free

Zero waste design means that equipment is designed to minimise or completely avoid product waste - for example during changeover, cleaning or operation. This is important for sustainability, economy and hygiene.

Water hammer

Water hammer is a pressure surge that occurs when the flow of fluid in a pipe is suddenly stopped - for example, when a valve is quickly closed. It can cause high mechanical stress and damage equipment and is prevented with soft closures and dampers.

Water discharger

A water discharger removes condensation from steam or compressed air systems without letting steam or air escape.

2

2-way valves

A 2-way valve has one inlet and one outlet and is used to open or close for flow in one direction. It is simple, reliable and widely used in automated systems - for both liquids and gases.

3

3-way valves

A 3-way valve has three ports and can either mix two flows into one or distribute one flow to two outputs. It offers more flexibility in flow control.