CIP/SIP Resistance: Selecting the Right Rubber Extrusion Seal for Hygienic Equipment
In the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries, maintaining strict hygiene is non-negotiable. Equipment must be routinely sanitized using CIP (Cleaning-In-Place) or SIP (Sterilization-In-Place) protocols. These processes involve circulating aggressive chemicals (strong acids, alkalis, peroxides) and/or high-temperature steam. For any piece of processing equipment (tanks, pipes, valves, pumps) the seals are the weak point. A failure in the rubber extrusion seal due to chemical attack or heat degradation can lead to contamination, process downtime, and costly compliance issues. Choosing the right elastomer for these demanding environments is a technical challenge where material expertise is critical. The Challenges of CIP/SIP on Extrusion Seals CIP/SIP cleaning subjects the extrusion seal to extreme conditions: A standard industrial rubber seal will quickly fail under these conditions. Material Selection for Hygienic Rubber Seal Extrusion Profiles The ideal material for rubber seal extrusion profiles in hygienic applications must offer both excellent chemical and thermal resistance. The three primary materials used are EPDM, FKM, and Silicone: Material Key Strengths Limitations in CIP/SIP Best Application EPDM (Peroxide-Cured) Excellent hot water and steam resistance. Good chemical resistance to polar solvents and acids. Poor resistance to oils, greases, and non-polar solvents. Food/beverage lines, steam sterilization. FKM (Fluoroelastomer) Superior chemical resistance (acids, bases, oils, solvents). High-temperature performance. Poor resistance to hot water/steam over long periods; high cost. Chemical processing, high-fat food products. Silicone (VMQ) Excellent high/low-temperature stability. Very low compression set. Poor resistance to concentrated steam and strong acids/bases; low mechanical strength. Low-pressure applications, general sealing where high temperature is key. For most high-pressure, steam-based CIP/SIP systems, peroxide-cured EPDM is often the first choice due to its excellent resistance to steam and common cleaning agents, provided the process does not involve high levels of animal fats or oils. Hygienic Design and Compliance Beyond the material, the design of the extruded rubber seal must facilitate cleaning: ISOGOM: Your Partner in Hygienic Sealing As experts in rubber extrusion seal manufacturing, ISOGOM understands the critical nature of CIP/SIP compliance. We specialize in providing rubber seal extrusion profiles that meet the stringent requirements of hygienic systems: Do you need a reliable, compliant rubber extrusion seal for your hygienic equipment?Contact ISOGOM today for a quote and consultation on finding the ideal extrusion seal material and profile for your demanding CIP/SIP application.









