In hygienic environments where air quality and control are critical, the infrastructure behind your air expulsion and supply systems matters just as much as the valves and filters themselves.
That’s why KMH Kamman Metallbau’s stainless steel ducting solutions are trusted by engineers across the food, beverage, dairy, and pharmaceutical industries.
🔧Why choose KMH ducting for air systems?
✔️High-grade stainless-steel construction – durable, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for hygienic zones
✔️Precision-welded, dead-leg-free design – supports cleanroom compliance and reduces contamination risks
✔️Modular and adaptable – allows easy installation and custom configuration for both supply and exhaust air systems
✔️Seamless integration with sterile filters, air valves
✔️Reduced turbulence and pressure loss – for energy-efficient air handling
Whether managing overpressure systems, ensuring aseptic air supply, or enabling controlled air expulsion, KMH ducting supports smooth, hygienic and safe airflow throughout your process facility.
📦Now available through Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd., with full support on specification, layout design, and integration with KMH’s broader air management range.
Meet Bob from Anderson-Negele, as he walks us through how the ITM-4 turbidity sensor can help identify problems in your chilled water monitoring system — before they turn into costly downtime.
Whether you’re dealing with plate heat exchanger failures, product contamination, or inefficient CIP, the ITM-4 offers real-time visibility into water clarity, helping you maintain hygienic standards and system integrity.
When it comes to the fisheries and marine processing industry, you need equipment that can handle challenging media like fish waste, emulsions, and high-viscosity fish oils — all while maintaining hygiene, reliability, and efficiency.
At Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd., we offer a range of Alfa Laval pump technologies perfectly suited for this environment:
🔹 Alfa Laval LKH Centrifugal Pumps
Ideal for gentle, efficient transfer of low-viscosity liquids like fish stickwater and broth, with hygienic design, low energy consumption, and easy CIP integration.
🔹 Alfa Laval LKH Evap (high inlet pressure variant)
Engineered for evaporation duties in fishmeal and fish oil processing, handling demanding pressure conditions without compromising flow or hygiene.
🔹 Alfa Laval Rotary Lobe Pumps
A go-to solution for viscous or shear-sensitive media like crude fish oils, emulsified by-products, and protein-rich slurries. Their low-shear design ensures product integrity and reliable transfer in harsh marine environments.
✅ Hygienic design
✅ Easy to clean and maintain
✅ Robust construction for corrosive and high-load applications
✅ Proven performance in both onshore and offshore installations
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your pump systems for better efficiency or expand your fish oil recovery line, we’re here to help you specify the right Alfa Laval solution.
📩 Talk to the team at ITS to learn more about pump selection, sizing, and integration into your marine or seafood process.
We were thrilled to welcome Alfa Laval to ITS for an in-house training session, which provided our team with a deep dive into two of their latest innovations — the Single Seat Pressure Relief Valve and the Leakage Detection Butterfly Valve.
Huge thanks to Paw Kramer and Karina Kwan for delivering a comprehensive and engaging refresher. The session combined presentations, practical hands-on learning, technical comparisons, and an open Q&A, giving our team the confidence to support customers with expert insight and advice.
At ITS, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve in hygienic flow solutions — and sessions like this are key to ensuring our knowledge stays as sharp as our service.
In industries where hygiene is critical — such as food & beverage, pharmaceutical, dairy, and personal care — the materials used in manufacturing and processing equipment must meet stringent standards. At the heart of hygienic process equipment is stainless steel, chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning.
But not all stainless steels are created equal. Understanding the different grades of stainless steel — and why they matter — is essential for specifying the right material for your application.
🔍What Makes Stainless Steel “Hygienic”?
Stainless steel is favoured in hygienic environments for three key reasons:
Corrosion resistance – Prevents contamination and maintains surface integrity
Strength and durability – Withstands high pressure, temperature, and aggressive cleaning cycles (CIP/SIP)
The secret to these properties lies in it’s chemical composition — and this varies significantly across different stainless steel grades.
🧪Common Stainless Steel Grades in Hygienic Applications
1. 304 Stainless Steel (1.4301)
Composition: ~18% Chromium, 8–10.5% Nickel
Applications: General food processing, light-duty applications
Pros: Affordable, widely available, good corrosion resistance
Limitations: Less resistant to chlorides and strong acids; not ideal for aggressive CIP chemicals or salty environments
2. 316 Stainless Steel (1.4401 / 1.4404)
Composition: Similar to 304, but with 2–3% Molybdenum
Applications: Dairy, brewery, pharmaceutical, biotech, and high-acid food environments
Pros: Superior corrosion resistance (especially to chlorides and acidic environments), ideal for repeated CIP/SIP cycles
Note: 1.4404 includes low carbon content (316L), reducing the risk of intergranular corrosion during welding
3. 316Ti (1.4571)
Composition: 316 with Titanium added
Applications: High-temperature and welded components
Pros: Titanium stabilisation improves weldability and resistance to carbide precipitation, increasing lifespan in certain process environments
⚠️Choosing the Right Grade: Why It Matters
Using the wrong stainless steel grade in a hygienic environment can lead to:
Surface pitting or corrosion
Microbial contamination risks
Reduced equipment lifespan
Non-compliance with hygienic standards (EHEDG, FDA, 3-A, etc.)
For example, 304 may be suitable for dry food handling or ambient-temperature equipment, but in dairy or pharma settings where aggressive cleaning agents are used, 316L is often the standard.
✅ What to Consider When Specifying Stainless Steel:
What media is in contact with the surface? (Acidic, salty, alkaline?)
What temperatures and cleaning agents will be used?
Is welding involved, and if so, what finish is required?
What industry regulations apply? (EHEDG, FDA, 3-A, etc.)
🔹Working with experienced suppliers — like Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd. — ensures your equipment meets both hygienic design requirements and material performance expectations.
🔩 Beyond the Metal – Surface Finish Matters Too
In hygienic environments, it’s not just about the steel grade — it’s also about surface finish. A smooth, polished surface (typically ≤ Ra 0.8 µm) minimises biofilm build-up and makes cleaning more effective. Some applications may even require electropolishing to achieve ultra-smooth finishes and passivation.
🌍 Future-Proofing Your Process Equipment
As regulatory standards evolve and sustainability becomes a greater focus, investing in the right stainless steel grade can reduce lifetime costs, minimise downtime, and ensure compliance and safety for years to come.
Whether you’re upgrading an existing process line or designing a new one, make sure your material selection reflects the demands of your process environment.
📩Need guidance on hygienic materials or component selection? Speak to the team at Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd. – we supply a full range of EHEDG-compliant valves, fittings, pumps, and process equipment in certified stainless steel grades to suit every application.
Each Eilersen system includes integrated load cell diagnostics, enabling real-time monitoring of:
✔️ Individual load cell performance
✔️ Load status
✔️ Early alerts for potential issues
While Eilersen digital load cells are virtually maintenance-free, if attention is ever needed, the system will proactively notify users, allowing for fast, easy, and targeted troubleshooting — without unnecessary downtime.
Intelligent weighing starts with smart sensors. Ready to optimise your system?
Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Cortney Hinton to Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd. For her school work experience.
During her placement, Cortney gained valuable insight into the world of business, with a full overview of how ITS operates. Over her time with us, she had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience across key departments, including marketing, sales, and the warehouse.
She worked on an ad campaign and product photoshoot – took on the role of event coordinator assistant, helping with catering and refreshments. Additionally, she participated in servicing and maintenance training, tried her hand at article writing, and managed various general admin and sales duties. This experience provided her with a well-rounded view of the different roles that keep our business running smoothly.
We were thrilled to support Cortney on her journey and show her the exciting opportunities a career in this industry can offer.
Thank you for being a part of the team, Cortney! 👏
When it comes to hygienic processing, choosing the right valve isn’t just about flow control — it’s about process integrity, cleanability, and uptime.
Here’s a quick comparison between the LIAG® arc valve (for pigging and process applications) and a standard ball valve in hygienic environments:
The LIAG® valve offers clear advantages in hygiene and cleanability thanks to its dead-zone-free construction and full CIP/SIP compatibility, which help minimise product hold-up and reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
In comparison, conventional ball valves can trap product and contaminants in the cavities around the ball, making thorough cleaning more difficult and less reliable. Additionally, the LIAG® valve is purpose-built for pigging systems, enabling high product recovery with minimal waste.
✅ In short, while ball valves may suit general-purpose or utility tasks, LIAG® valves are engineered for the rigorous demands of hygienic processing — where product quality, cleanability, and efficiency are non-negotiable.
Speak to us about the right valve for your food, beverage, pharma, or home care process. Our team can support with full system design and specification. 01675 465191 / sales@industrialtradingsolutions.com
At Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd., we’re committed to supporting our customers in making environmentally responsible choices — without added hassle or cost.
That’s why we’re proud to support the Alfa Laval ThinkTop Recirculation Initiative, a smart and sustainable scheme designed to reduce waste when upgrading your valve control units.
🔁What’s it all about?
When customers replace or upgrade 25 or more Alfa Laval ThinkTop units, Alfa Laval will arrange collection of the old units — completely free of charge and with zero inconvenience to your operation.
The composite components from these legacy units are then responsibly recycled and repurposed, supporting a more circular approach to equipment life cycles.
🌿 Why it matters:
✅ No-cost, no-hassle collection for 25+ ThinkTops
✅ Diverts composite parts from landfill
✅ Supports your site’s sustainability and ESG goals
✅ Encourages responsible upgrades to ThinkTop V50/V70
This initiative reflects the industry’s growing commitment to green engineering — where innovation goes hand in hand with sustainability.
📦Planning a ThinkTop upgrade project?
Get in touch with the ITS team to arrange your free collection and help us close the loop on valve automation waste. 01675 465191 / sales@industrialtradingsolutions.com
Enjoy 5% off all Pipetite® Grommets when you spend £180 or more — exclusively on ITS Lite!
Simply apply the discount code PTGROM5 at the checkout stage to redeem.
Pipetite® grommets are the perfect solution for sealing pipe and tube penetrations through machine panels, wall plates, and vessel insulation. Made from hygienic white silicone and FDA certified, they provide a completely self-sealing solution — no additional sealant or clean-up required. Unlike traditional silicone, Pipetite® grommets won’t crack over time and remain flexible to accommodate movement or vibration. They’re also resistant to temperatures up to 260°C and are fully compatible with standard cleaning agents, making them ideal for cleanrooms, food production, and pharmaceutical environments.
We offer a wide range of Pipetite grommet variations to suit your installation needs, including:
As May comes to a close, we’re excited to share the latest edition of the ITS Flow Time Newsletter – May 2025.
This month’s issue includes an introduction to newly launched products within our extended portfolio, as well as details on our latest service and maintenance incentives—all designed to add value and support to your operations.
In industries where cleanliness and reliability are non-negotiable — like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, dairy, and personal care — your hygienic pump is a cornerstone of smooth, safe production. But even the most robust pumps aren’t immune to wear and tear. Fortunately, with the right maintenance strategies and a proactive mindset, you can extend the life of your hygienic pump significantly and avoid costly downtime.
Here’s how to keep your hygienic pump performing at its best, for longer.
1. Choose the Right Pump for the Job
Longevity starts with specification. A pump that’s under- or oversized, or made from incompatible materials, will wear out quickly. Make sure you select a pump that’s tailored to:
The viscosity and abrasiveness of your product
Temperature requirements
Clean-in-place (CIP) compatibility
Pressure and flow rate needs
💡Top Tip: Work with suppliers who take the time to understand your full process – not just the pump in isolation.
🔹Need help?ITS can support you in selecting the right hygienic pump for your application — ensuring optimum performance from the outset.
2. Stick to a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Don’t wait for failure. Create and stick to a preventive maintenance plan that includes:
Regular inspection of seals, gaskets, and O-rings
Lubrication of moving parts (if applicable)
Monitoring vibration and noise levels
Checking for product residue build-up
🧠Remember: Small irregularities can signal early-stage wear. Early intervention is always cheaper than emergency repair.
🔹ITS offers maintenance guidance and technical support to help you create a schedule that fits your operations.
See more
3. Keep It Clean (But Carefully)🫧
Yes, it’s a hygienic pump – but CIP systems still require monitoring. Overly aggressive cleaning agents, incorrect temperatures, or prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals can degrade internal components.
Use only approved cleaning agents and follow manufacturer guidelines
Rinse thoroughly to avoid residue build-up
Regularly validate your CIP process to ensure effective cleaning without component damage
4. Monitor Performance Metrics
A small drop in flow rate or a slight pressure change might seem insignificant, but these could be early signs of internal wear or blockages.
Keep a log of performance metrics such as:
Pressure differentials
Flow rates
Power consumption
Product temperature
✅Pro tip: Invest in digital monitoring tools for real-time alerts and predictive maintenance capabilities.
** Get a FREE Alfa Laval Condition Monitor with any Alfa Laval pump you purchase through ITS!
Operators are the front line of defence when it comes to pump health. Make sure your staff are trained to:
Recognise abnormal sounds or leaks
Understand start-up and shutdown protocols
Conduct visual inspections and basic maintenance
Report anomalies promptly
⭐A well-informed team will spot problems before they become failures.
6. Use Genuine Spare Parts
It’s tempting to cut costs with generic seals or non-OEM components, but this often leads to premature wear or even damage to the pump housing. Always use genuine, manufacturer-approved parts — they’re designed for compatibility and long-term durability.
🔹ITS supplies genuine spare parts for leading hygienic pump brands — helping you maintain compliance and performance.
7. Record and Review Maintenance Logs
A detailed maintenance log helps track wear patterns, predict part lifespans, and improve scheduling. It also builds a valuable knowledge base for new engineers or contractors.
8. Partner with a Reliable Supplier
Choose a supplier who offers more than just parts. Look for those who provide:
Technical support
Site visits and audits
Spare parts management
Upgrade advice as your processes evolve
🔹Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd. (ITS) offers all this and more — from pump selection and system design to troubleshooting and long-term support. With extensive industry knowledge and a customer-first approach, ITS is your partner in process efficiency and hygiene compliance.
💭Final Thoughts
Your hygienic pump might be a small part of a bigger process, but its reliability underpins your product quality and production uptime. A little planning and regular attention go a long way. By investing in proactive care — and working with experienced partners like ITS — your pump will serve you efficiently (and hygienically) for many years to come.
We’re looking for a driven Area Sales Engineer with experience in hygienic valves, pumps, and process equipment to join our growing team at ITS.
If you thrive on building customer relationships, solving process challenges, and smashing targets across the food, beverage, pharma, and dairy sectors, this could be your next big move.
💡 Why Join Us?
✅ Competitive salary + bonus
✅ Company car + full toolkit
✅ Flexible, home-based working
✅ Be part of a trusted UK Master Distributor for Alfa Laval & more
📍 Covering a UK territory (based on your location) with monthly visits to our Coleshill HQ.
Precision Maintenance for Precision Snacks | Annual Pump Servicing at Nature Delivered (Graze)
Our ITS Servicing & Maintenance team recently completed scheduled preventive maintenance for Nature Delivered (Graze), ensuring their hygienic processing lines remain in optimal operating condition.
All units underwent a comprehensive front-end disassembly, enabling our engineers to perform:
🔹Full internal inspection of wetted components
🔹Mechanical seal removal and replacement, ensuring sealing integrity under hygienic conditions
🔹Replacement of all elastomers to Alfa Laval OEM specifications
🔹Verification of impeller clearance and shaft alignment
🔹Visual inspection and cleaning of all product contact surfaces
This proactive service mitigates the risk of unplanned downtime, ensures compliance with stringent hygienic standards, and extends equipment lifespan.
All works completed in line with Alfa Laval maintenance protocols and documented for traceability and audit readiness.
Our ITS Servicing & Maintenance team can support your operation with professional, OEM-standard servicing. Let’s have a discussion today –
At Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd, we understand that investing in filtration equipment is a critical decision — which is why we proudly offer the opportunity to test HiFlux Autoline filters before you commit.
As the UK distributor for HiFlux Filtration, we believe in helping you make informed, confident decisions. Testing an Autoline filter ensures:
✅ Performance aligns with your specific process needs
✅ Seamless integration into your existing systems
✅ A long-term, cost-effective and reliable liquid filtration solution
Whether you operate in food & beverage, brewing, pharmaceuticals, dairy or homecare — your filtration system should deliver without compromise.
Last week, our colleagues Nick Willetts, Martin Williams and Tamsin Smith travelled to Germany to spend time with our partners at Anderson-Negele — a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of the technologies we supply to our UK customers.
The team gained first-hand insights into the processes where Anderson-Negele sensors are applied, explored the features and benefits of their leading-edge equipment, and participated in hands-on testing across key product lines, including:
They also conducted competitor analysis to ensure we’re always delivering the most innovative and reliable solutions to our customers in the food & beverage, dairy, pharmaceutical and hygiene-critical sectors.
🙌 A huge thank you to Nikolas Stadel, Volker Brandes and the entire Anderson-Negele team for the warm hospitality and exceptional training. Your support enhances our ability to provide expert guidance and high-performance process solutions to our customers across the UK.
We are excited to announce that Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd is now an authorised distributor of Alfa Laval Contherm Spares in the UK!
🔹 What is Contherm?
The Alfa Laval Contherm is a highly efficient scraped surface heat exchanger designed for processing viscous, sticky, and heat-sensitive products. It is widely used in the food, dairy, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, ensuring precise thermal processing while preventing product degradation.
🔹Essential Contherm Spares
To keep your Contherm system running at peak efficiency, regular maintenance and genuine OEM spare parts are crucial. Some of the key replacement parts include:
✅ Scraper blades – Essential for maintaining heat transfer efficiency and preventing product buildup.
✅ O-rings & gaskets – Ensure leak-free performance and maintain hygienic standards.
✅ Rotors & shafts – Critical for the smooth operation of the heat exchanger.
✅ Bearings & seals – Prevent excessive wear and tear, extending equipment lifespan.
✅ Cylinders & cooling jackets – Help regulate temperature for optimal processing.
By partnering with Industrial Trading Solutions Ltd, you are guaranteed authentic Alfa Laval Contherm spares, expert advice, and unmatched customer support to keep your operations running smoothly.
⏰ A quick reminder: you’re missing out if you haven’t registered your ITS Lite account for your exclusive trade prices yet!
As anITS Liteuser, you get access to:
✅ No minimum order value (M.O.V) charges
✅ No delays waiting for quotes
✅ Exclusive trade prices across our online store
Set up your trade account and enjoy fast access to essential hygienic components — whether you’re sourcing breakdown recovery spares, service kits, or keeping on top of stock.
Servinox‘s innovative “bunging valve” ensures precise upstream pressure regulation with high manual precision, ensuring top-notch food safety.
Key Features:
🔹 Rapid CO2 level indication for fermentation kinetics
🔹 Highest hygiene standards with precision design
🔹 Cleanable in place for convenience
🔹 Self-refilling bubbling unit
🔹 Stand-alone device for versatile use
🚀 Applications:
Perfect for pressure control in the brewery and food industry.
In the fast-paced and competitive meat processing industry, durability and cost-efficiency are essential.
That’s why Oestergaard A/S—a global leader in meat rendering solutions—relies on Eilersen capacitive load cells to deliver precise and dependable weighing performance.
Explore how advanced weighing technology contributes to their operational excellence in this detailed case study.
