Utigoflex Food Grade Rubber Hoses for Food And Beverage Applications
Introduction
Utigoflex food grade rubber hoses are engineered for safe, reliable transfer of consumable liquids across the food and beverage industry. Their design balances flexibility, durability, and strict hygienic compliance.
Typical Applications in the Food & Beverage Industry:
Transfer of beer, wine, juice, and soft drinks
Handling of edible oils, vinegar, and syrups
Dairy applications (milk, whey, cream)
Potable water supply
General transfer of liquid food ingredients within processing plants
Essential Precautions for Using Utigoflex Food-Grade Rubber Hoses
Proper handling and maintenance of food-grade rubber hoses are critical for product safety, hose longevity, and operational reliability. The following precautions are categorized by usage phase and operating conditions.
1. Installation and Hose Routing Precautions
Maintain Minimum Bend Radius
Maintain the manufacturer’s specified minimum bend radius. Sharp bends kink the hose, restrict flow, weaken reinforcement, and trap cleaning fluids.
Prevent Hose Torsion
Ensure the hose lies naturally without torsion. Twisting stresses reinforcement and can cause premature failure at fittings.
2. Cleaning and Sanitation Management
Prevent Product Residue Drying
Always flush with water before leaving product to dry inside. Dried product (e.g., sugar, dairy) is difficult to clean and promotes bacterial growth.
3. Pressure and Vacuum Control
Avoid Pressure Spikes and Excessive Vacuum
Sudden pressure spikes (water hammer) or excessive vacuum can cause bursting or collapse. Use pressure regulators and vacuum relief valves.
4. Temperature Management
Prevent Thermal Shock
Avoid sudden extreme temperature changes (e.g., cold hose with boiling liquid). Thermal shock can delaminate layers or crack rubber.
Food-Grade Rubber Hoses as a Critical Control Point in Food Safety
A food-grade hose is a critical control point in your food safety system. Treating it with the same precautionary rigor as any other processing surface is essential.
When in doubt, replace it.
The cost of a new hose is insignificant compared to the risk of product recall, contamination, or production downtime.
