VICOTE® coating delivers durable, high-performance solution in demanding food-processing application

Citation

(2008), "VICOTE® coating delivers durable, high-performance solution in demanding food-processing application", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 55 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.2008.12855cad.004

VICOTE® coating delivers durable, high-performance solution in demanding food-processing application

Article Type: New materials and equipment From: Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Volume 55, Issue 3.

VICTREX plc's, VICOTE^® coating has been selected by Sontec Sensorbau GmbH, one of Germany's leading manufacturers of industry-leading measurement technology. Sontec will utilise VICOTE to seal and electrically insulate probe rods in measurement sensors. The sensors are used in the food processing industry to detect the level of liquid media in containers or pipelines. VICOTE coatings are based on VICTREX^® PEEK™ polymer, a linear, aromatic, semi-crystalline material that is widely regarded as one of the highest performing thermoplastics in the world.

Sontec's VICOTE coated sensor probe rod rotates inside an isolating body made from VICTREX PEEK. The rod is electrically isolated from the container wall as well as from its own process attachment. Electrical conductivity between the rod and the wall of the container or pipeline is used to detect the level of a liquid when the level becomes marginal.

The special geometry of the VICTREX PEEK isolating body allows for hygienic sealing of the sensor rod without any “dead space”. Electrical isolation of the probe rod against the container wall and around the penetration area of the process connection is critical in measurements of this type.

VICOTE's unique set of properties make it the optimum material in this extremely demanding environment. Its electro-static dissipative properties ensure no deposits of a conductive medium can build-up around the connection and adversely affect the measurement. VICOTE has excellent temperature resistance capabilities and very low creep. Its excellent mechanical properties, wear and abrasion resistance lengthen the probe's service life. Additionally, VICOTE protects against mechanical damage when installing the probe.

VICOTE coatings are resistant to chemicals such as salts, water/steam, alkalis, acids and aromatic hydrocarbons. They are FDA food contact approved, so food safety is assured. Teflon coatings such as PFA and PTFE have been traditionally used for this application. However, despite sharing similar mechanical strength and FDA compliance with VICOTE these coatings do not perform as well under the demanding conditions often found in the food-processing industry. Abrasive components in the medium which, when used continuously, can erode softer coatings such as PFA, VICOTE is significantly more durable.

VICOTE fills the performance gap found in many existing coating technologies. Whether it is applied to probes, cookware or piping, it is a compelling choice for engineers looking to improve the overall wear and life of their applications. VICOTE coatings are available through VICTREX or its established coater network around the world.

For further information please visit the web site: www.victrex.com