Hygienic Steam

Detailed Explanation

Boiler (utility) steam may contain treatment chemicals such as corrosion-inhibiting amines, so it is not used directly as humidification steam in hygiene-critical spaces. Hygienic steam is obtained in two ways:

• Steam-to-steam exchanger (Neptronic SKS4, 15–200 kg/h): boiler steam stays on the primary side of the exchanger; chemical-free steam is produced from clean water on the secondary side. • Resistive steam humidifier (Neptronic SKE4, 5–120 kg/h): heater elements in a stainless steam tank boil the water. With no conductivity requirement it runs on RO/DI water, which minimises mineral build-up and mineral carry-over with the steam.

Boiling steam does not carry dissolved minerals; mineral carry-over comes from droplet entrainment caused by foaming or a high water level and is limited by good draining and foam control.

Engineering Note

• Technology: SKS4 where boiler steam is available; SKE4 on RO/DI water where an electric solution is wanted. Direct steam injection (SKD) uses boiler steam and is therefore not preferred in hygiene-critical areas. Electrode humidifiers do not run on RO/DI water. • Distribution: the steam hose and distributor are installed with a slope that returns condensate to the unit or a condensate trap; the absorption distance in the duct is checked against manufacturer data. • Water and maintenance: the feed-water analysis is reviewed during unit selection; steam-tank cleaning and drain settings follow the maintenance plan. • Qualification: in pharmaceutical plants, qualification of the humidification system is the facility's own GMP responsibility.

NKT – Nem Kontrol Teknolojileri provides equipment supply, unit-selection support, technical service and spare parts; design, installation and commissioning remain with the facility's designer and contractor.