In the competitive world of food processing, maintaining high standards of product quality is crucial. One of North America’s largest chocolate suppliers faced a challenge that many in the industry can relate to: finding a reliable sealing solution for their equipment. This case study highlights how Durlon® 9000 PTFE gaskets and Durlon® Joint Sealant provided an effective, durable solution, ensuring compliance with strict FDA standards while minimizing downtime and costs.
The Challenge: Keeping Quality Consistent
The chocolate supplier in question had invested heavily in advanced European-made chocolate holding tanks to perfect their craft. Initially, these tanks were fitted with red rubber gaskets to seal tank doors and interiors. However, the red rubber gaskets began to deteriorate over time, unable to withstand the frequent cleaning cycles required to maintain food safety standards.
The challenge was twofold: the gaskets needed to be durable enough to endure regular maintenance and cleaning cycles, and they also had to comply with the strict Food & Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for food processing. Contacting the European tank manufacturers for a solution was both costly and time-consuming. The company needed a quick and effective solution to prevent downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
The Solution: Durlon® 9000 PTFE Gaskets
Recognizing the limitations of their current gaskets, the maintenance team decided to look closer to home for a more durable and compliant solution. They chose Durlon® 9000 PTFE gaskets as a replacement for the red rubber gaskets. These gaskets are designed for use in process piping and equipment, specifically in food and beverage and other general industrial applications.
The Durlon® 9000 gaskets offer several distinct advantages:
- Durability: These gaskets are more resilient and better suited to withstand frequent cleaning cycles without breaking down.
- Compliance: They meet FDA requirements, making them safe for use in food processing environments.
- Corrosion Resistance: The shape of the fillers in Durlon® 9000 prevents wicking, which can cause corrosion on flange surfaces.
The Results: A High-Performance Solution
The switch to Durlon® 9000 proved to be an effective solution for the chocolate supplier. Not only did it resolve the durability issues, but it also ensured compliance with food safety regulations. The maintenance team could perform regular cleaning and inspections without worrying about gasket failures, significantly reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
In addition to providing Durlon® 9000 gaskets, Durlon also supplied the company with Durlon® Joint Sealant. This product served as a temporary, cost-effective solution when the tank doors needed to be opened for visual inspections and routine cleaning. The company appreciated the level of support and service from Durlon’s customer service and technical teams, further cementing their satisfaction with the products.
Conclusion: A Reliable Partner in Food Processing
This case study demonstrates how Durlon® Sealing Solutions can help food and beverage processors maintain high standards of quality and safety. The Durlon® 9000 and Durlon® Joint Sealant have proven to be durable, FDA-compliant solutions that meet the rigorous demands of food processing environments. By providing reliable products and exceptional customer support, Durlon continues to be a trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their operations while ensuring the highest levels of safety and quality.
For more information on Durlon® products, visit Durlon Sealing Solutions.