Notice of exhibiting at the FOOMA JAPAN 2025

Posted on by monovate

We will be exhibiting at FOOMA JAPAN 2025 (International Food Industry Exhibition), one of the largest comprehensive food manufacturing exhibitions in the world.
You can see our mixing and heating equipment, as well as solutions for smooth powder transfer and mixing.
We sincerely look forward to your visit.

*Please note that advance visitor registration is required for this exhibition.
Be sure to register before attending.


Click Here to Register

Overview

Date: June 10 (Tue) – 13 (Fri), 2025, 10:00–17:00
Venue: Tokyo Big Sight
Booth Location: East Hall 1, Booth 1F-22

Exhibits

New Product: Powder Suction-Type Mixing Tank

[New Product]
Powder Suction-Type Mixing Tank


Hopper to Prevent Bridging & Promote Smooth Discharge

Hopper to Prevent Bridging & Promote Smooth Discharge
and Powder Transfer Device


Mixer That Reduces Foaming

Mixer That Reduces Foaming


Efficient Container & Mixer Set for Heating Contents

Container & Mixer Set for Efficient Heating of Contents

*Please note that exhibits are subject to change without notice.

Notice of exhibiting at the 11th Interphex Osaka

Posted on by monovate

We will be exhibiting at the 11th Interphex Osaka (Pharmaceutical & Cosmetics Manufacturing Expo),
one of the largest events in the Kansai region for pharmaceutical and cosmetics manufacturing technology.
You can see our mixing and heating equipment, as well as solutions for smooth powder transfer and mixing.
We sincerely look forward to your visit.

*Please note that advance visitor registration is required for this exhibition.
Be sure to register before attending.


Click Here to Register

Overview

Date: February 25 (Tue) – 27 (Thu), 2025, 10:00–17:00
Venue: Intex Osaka
Booth Location: Hall 5, Booth 6-31

Exhibits



[New Product]
Powder Suction-Type Mixing Tank




Hopper to Prevent Bridging & Promote Smooth Discharge
and Powder Transfer Device




Mixer That Reduces Foaming


Efficient Container & Mixer Set for Heating Contents

Container & Mixer Set for Efficient Heating of Contents

*Please note that exhibits are subject to change without notice.

Enhancing Filtration Efficiency with Stainless Steel Tanks: Custom Solutions & Proposals

Posted on by monovate

enhancing-filtration

We have received numerous inquiries about “filtration tanks,” used to remove foreign matter from slurry or to recover solids from liquids.
(Different manufacturers may refer to them by various names, such as filtration vessels, filtration equipment, or simply filters.)

At MONOVATE, we offer two types of stainless steel tanks for vacuum and pressure filtration
(Click here for details; JP ).

These products can be customized to meet your specific needs, taking into account your requirements and the characteristics of the contents.

This column introduces some examples of proposals we have made in the past.

Table of Contents

• What is “filtration”?

• Terminology Related to Filtration

• Examples of Filtration Tank Proposals

• Consultation on Manufacturing Stainless Steel Filtration Tanks & Equipment

What is “filtration”?

Filtration is the process of passing a liquid or gas containing solid particles through a filter medium
to separate and remove foreign matter. In other words, “straining out” unwanted materials.

Methods of filtration include simply relying on gravity, applying pressure, or using centrifugal force.
Although “removing foreign matter” might sound complicated, filtration is commonly found in our daily lives.

Examples of everyday filtration:
• Coffee filter: removing coffee grounds
• Water purifier: removing impurities from water
• Oil pot: removing residue from frying oil
• Air purifier: removing pollen and other particles from the air

Terminology Related to Filtration

Filter Medium (Filter Media)

Items such as filter paper, filters, or membranes. There are various types and materials depending on the purpose.

Filter Aid

A substance used to prevent clogging of the filter medium and make filtration easier (e.g., food-grade diatomaceous earth).

Cake

The material that remains (accumulates) on the filter medium after filtration, also referred to as “residues.”

Filtrate

The liquid or gas obtained after passing through the filter medium.

Examples of Filtration Tank Proposals

Example 1: Reducing Filtration Time

We proposed a customized version of the [QR-100M] Vacuum Filtration Vessel.
To shorten the filtration time, we increased the filtration area to 3.5 times that of the standard specification.
We also enlarged the hopper capacity to allow for bulk loading of materials.

filtration vessel

Example 2: Separating Solvents and Powder

We proposed a filtration tank to wash powdered materials with solvent.

To improve work efficiency, we kept the total height of the tank at 1800 mm.
After mixing the powder and solvent in the upper tank, the mixture is vacuum-filtered into the lower tank,
allowing separate collection of powder and solvent.

filtration tank to wash powdered materials

Example 3: Scaling Up Filtration Equipment

When scaling up from a glass filtration device, we proposed a custom stainless steel filtration unit.

The filter section is designed so that the same filter paper previously used can still be utilized.
The filtrate is collected into a plastic bottle placed inside the tank, which can accommodate multiple
bottle sizes (0.25 L, 0.5 L, 1 L, 2 L) owned by the customer.

View This Proposal Example

Example 4: Removing Foreign Matter with a Mesh Basket

We proposed a stainless steel basket that can be set on the tank’s rim and used like a tea strainer.

With an approximately 1mm mesh size, it can remove fine particles.
We can manufacture the basket in a size tailored to your tank, or provide a set that includes both
the basket and the tank.

mesh bascket for tanks with an inner diameter of 330mm

View This Proposal Example

Consultation on Manufacturing Stainless Steel Filtration Tanks & Equipment

MONOVATE can manufacture filtration tanks and filtration equipment starting from a single unit,
making them ideal for laboratory use and small-scale production of various items.

Feel free to contact us if you are considering a filtration tank.
We are also open to inquiries regarding filtration testing.

Inquire About Filtration Tanks

[Important] Internet and Telephone Line Disruption at Yashio Factory (As of Jan. 29, 2025, 12:00 PM)

Posted on by monovate

Due to a road collapse incident that occurred around 10:00 AM on Tuesday, Jan. 28, MONOVATE Yashio Factory (including the Sales Department) is experiencing disruptions in both internet and telephone lines.

We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our customers.

Current Situation

  • Telephone: Out of service
  • FAX: Out of service
  • Contacting Sales Representatives: You can still reach each sales representative via email or mobile phone.

Restoration Efforts

We are working to secure an internet connection, but the connection remains unstable.

Complete restoration is expected to take longer than usual, and at this time, there is no estimated timeframe for full recovery.

We will provide updates as soon as there are any developments.

Temporary Measures

Responses to inquiries (especially technical services) and quotation requests may take longer than usual.
If urgent, please contact your sales representative directly via mobile phone or use the inquiry form on our company website.

We deeply regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding as we work towards a swift recovery.

Introducing Customizations to Improve Input and Discharge Losses Based on Case Studies

Posted on by monovate

When we hear from our customers about troubles they are encountering in the installation or renewal of equipment, we often receive consultations about loss and yield improvements.

Our equipment, offered by Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo, can be customized from a single unit, so we propose changes such as adding or changing components, or altering the design, based on what we learn from your requirements.

While the proposals will vary depending on the working environment and the nature of the work, in this column, we will focus on the “input” and “output” stages, and introduce customizations that have actually been adopted, primarily aimed at loss and yield improvement.

Introducing by Causes of Loss

【1】Work flutters or scatters

【2】Spilling during input

【3】Cannot be completely discharged from the container (there is liquid remaining)

続きを読む

Join Us at BIOPLUS-INTERPHEX KOREA 2023!

Posted on by monovate

We are thrilled to announce our participation at the BIOPLUS-INTERPHEX KOREA 2023, a premier international trade fair renowned for uniting top-tier companies and professionals in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.

Please find the details of our exhibition below:

  • Date: July 12 (Wednesday) to July 14 (Friday), 2023
  • Location: Coex, Seoul
  • Booth: F41

Exhibition Site

At our booth, we will proudly display our line of high-tech stirrers and introduce the Stirring Temperature Control Unit.

This innovative device provides the dual functions of stirring and temperature regulation in a single, easy-to-operate unit, signifying a major leap forward in our product offerings.

Our experienced team will be available throughout the event to provide in-depth information about our products, respond to any questions, and discuss how our stirring technologies can enhance your operations.

We warmly welcome all BIOPLUS-INTERPHEX KOREA 2023 attendees to visit our booth. Join us to discover our latest solutions and engage in productive discussions about our state-of-the-art technology.

For any further information regarding our presence at the exhibition or our products, feel free to contact us.

We eagerly await your visit at BIOPLUS-INTERPHEX KOREA 2023 in Seoul!

Holiday Notice

Posted on by monovate

Dear valued customers,

Our company will be observing a series of holidays in the upcoming days.

We would like to inform you that during this period, we will be unable to respond to inquiries.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly ask for your understanding.

Following the holidays, we will resume our regular support services.

 

Please note that we will address inquiries received during the holiday period in the order they were received once the holidays are over.

If your matter is urgent or requires immediate attention, we kindly ask that you contact us before or after the holiday period.

Holiday period: from 2023/05/03 to 2023/05/07.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding.

MONOVATE’s Contribution to the SDGs

Posted on by monovate

The SDGs adopted in September 2015 are probably familiar words to many people today, more than 5 years after their adoption. In addition to large companies and local governments, a growing number of small and medium-sized companies are stepping up their efforts to address the SDGs.

The SDGs stand for “Sustainable Development Goals” and represent 17 goals that all of humanity should strive for by 2030. It’s already 2021. With less than 10 years remaining until 2030, the target year for achieving the SDGs, the United Nations has designated the 10 years from 2020 to 2030 as the “10 Years of Action,” calling on the entire world to further strengthen its efforts.

In this article, we explain the basics of the SDGs and Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo’s vision of contributing to them.

Contents
1. What are the SDGs?
1.1. SDGs = Sustainable Development Goals
1.2. What is the difference from the MDGs, the predecessor of the SDGs?
2. Our company’s Contribution to the SDGs
2.1. Stainless steel is a 100% recyclable material
2.2. Stainless steel has a long service life
2.3. Contributing to the production of safe medicines in sanitary containers
3. Initiatives for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. What are the SDGs?

1.1. SDGs = Sustainable Development Goals

The SDGs are the Sustainable Development Goals adopted at a UN summit in September 2015. It consists of 17 goals and 169 targets. It was adopted unanimously by the 193 member states and is a common goal that the whole world and all mankind should aim for during the 15 years from 2016 to 2030. Our philosophy is to leave no one behind.

As the word “sustainable “suggests, the world today is not sustainable. If we continue to develop, produce, and consume as before, humanity and the planet will not survive. All countries recognize this and sustainable development is required to prevent it.

What is sustainable development?

It means “development that satisfies the needs of future generations but also satisfies the needs of current generations.”

In other words, it means moderate development that can satisfy the needs of the current generation without creating a shortage in relation to the needs of the future generation, while balancing social, economic and environmental factors.

1.2. What is the difference from the MDGs, the predecessor of the SDGs?

Concerns about social, economic and environmental sustainability are nothing new. The Stockholm Declaration, adopted in 1972 as a framework for promoting environmental conservation, is regarded as the first international agreement to address the relationship between society, economy and environment.

Later, in 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development (United Nations) first created the concept of Sustainable Development, and since then, international conferences on sustainable development have been held at regular intervals.

The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were adopted at the UN Millennium Summit held in 2000. The MDGs are targeted to be achieved by 2015, with a total of 8 targets and 21 targets.

While the MDGs have been praised as “the most successful anti-poverty effort in history” for their effectiveness in reducing the number of poor people in the world by more than half, they have also left some issues to be addressed. New challenges are also emerging that go beyond the framework of the MDGs, such as climate change and global environmental degradation.

Therefore, when the term of the MDGs expired in 2015, the SDGs became a new goal in succession. The SDGs differ from the MDGs in the following ways:

・Developed countries will also engage in
->While the MDGs focused on solving the challenges of developing countries, the SDGs expand the goals and allow developed countries to address common challenges.
・ Not only the government, but also the private sector and individuals
->While the MDGs were largely driven by government, the SDGs involve all stakeholders (countries, businesses, the general public, etc.).
・ An integrated form of economic, social and environmental issues
->It comprehensively addresses the three elements of the economy, society and the environment and sets 17 goals. Each goal is interconnected.

In other words, the SDGs are common goals for all of humanity that each of us, as a party, must work towards so that the world and the planet can continue to be better for ourselves and our children and grandchildren.

2. Our company's Contribution to the SDGs

We believe that the following are the greatest contributions Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo can make to the SDGs.

“Continuing to provide high-quality, clean stainless steel containers to the world”

And of course,

Thoroughly turning off lights in unused areas and optimizing set temperatures based on air-conditioning operating standards (Goals 7, 11, 13)
Promoting paperless use by introducing business applications (Goal 12)
Establish maternity, paternity leave and shorter working hours systems, and promote reduction of overtime hours (Goals 5, 8)
and other initiatives, but what our company excels at and can make an impact on more people through our company’s business is continuing to provide high-quality stainless steel containers.

So how does continuing to provide stainless steel containers contribute to sustainable development?

2.1. Stainless steel is a 100% recyclable material

A Yale study found that 85% of stainless steel products are recycled after they reach the end of their life. The recycling rate for industrial machinery is as high as 90%. In addition, the recovered stainless steel is 100% recyclable, which helps conserve resources and energy.

Recycling can be costly and sometimes unprofitable depending on the material. If it’s not profitable, the recycling system itself becomes less sustainable.

However, even if stainless steel products reach the end of their lifespan, their inherent value as stainless steel material does not diminish. Therefore, the scrap value of stainless steel is relatively high, which is a characteristic feature.

Since the stainless steel recycling system is beneficial for buyers, users, manufacturers, and the environment, it can be said that the recycling system itself is also sustainable.

Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo's Stainless Steel Containers are the "Material Itself"

Our stainless steel containers are basically made of all stainless steel (SUS304, SUS316L, etc.). Although resin and other materials may be used as components of the product, they are often detachable.

Because the container itself is made of stainless steel, there are no “extra things” attached during the recycling process. It can be recycled as it is.

2.2 Stainless steel has a long service life

Stainless steel is characterized by its rust resistance and durability. Moreover, maintenance is low-cost, as basic cleaning and wiping are all that is required.

Even if a recycling system were established, it is best for the environment to not produce more than necessary. Stainless steel is a long-lasting material, with an average lifespan of 25 years for industrial machines and products made of stainless steel.

2.3 Contributing to the production of safe medicines in sanitary containers

Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo’s stainless steel containers are used in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, among other applications. This is not just because of the high corrosion resistance of stainless steel or its compatibility with autoclave sterilization and disinfection.

Our containers use specially ordered BA material, which allows us to form products without performing unnecessary processing or causing damage through welding. Furthermore, as our commitment to quality, we only perform minimal buff polishing.

In general, buff polishing is applied to stainless steel containers to increase their gloss and smoothness. This process involves applying polishing powder, called abrasives, to the buff and then polishing the surface. However, this process leaves oil from the polishing agent in the fine scratches on the stainless steel surface that are inevitably produced during polishing. In other words, the more polish is applied on the surface, the more dirtier the surface would be.

Therefore, at our company, we use carefully selected custom BA materials with a very fine surface roughness from the state of the material. With this, there is no need to polish more than necessary. By providing clean stainless steel products, we contribute to the production and dissemination of safe pharmaceuticals, food, and other products.

Electropolishing for even cleaner stainless steel products

Electropolishing is a surface treatment widely used in the production of tanks and other equipment for pharmaceutical factories. Electropolishing is a polishing method that dissolves metal ions from the metal surface to smooth it.

By subjecting stainless steel to electropolishing, it is possible to remove small surface contaminants and prevent the accumulation of dirt by making the surface smoother. It also creates a stronger passive film, improving corrosion resistance.

Our company has the equipment and technology to perform pharmaceutical-grade electropolishing in-house. This is useful in the production of products that require high levels of cleanliness.

3. Initiatives for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

As the target date for achieving the SDGs is less than 10 years away, the United Nations has launched the “Decade of Action” to call for further efforts to strengthen the SDGs. In response, countries, municipalities, and various companies are making further efforts, but the crucial point is whether these efforts themselves are “sustainable”.

In the past, the environment and development (economic growth) were considered opposing forces. However, the SDGs consider them to be coexisting and something that should be coexisted. The economic-social-environmental relationship is not a trade-off, and how to align these three elements is important.

Therefore, it is essential to work towards sustainable SDGs. Even after 2030, we must always consider sustainable development. We cannot make efforts towards the SDGs a one-time thing.

Honestly, our company still faces challenges in terms of our efforts towards the SDGs and understanding within the company. However, in order to contribute to the economic-social-environmental aspects through our business and fulfill our social mission, our company will continue to provide high-quality and clean stainless steel products to society.

References

・ステンレスとCO2:事実と科学的観察, ISSF, 2019

・The Global Life Cycle of Stainless Steels, Team Stainless & Yale University, 2021

・リサイクルが容易なステンレス鉄鋼, ステンレス協会, 2001

・青柳仁士『小さな会社のSDGs実践の教科書』, 翔泳社, 2021

What is the Highest Grade of Electro-polishing?

Posted on by monovate

Content of this Article:

  1. What is electropolishing anyway?

2. Benefits of Electrolytic Polishing

3. Disadvantages of Electrolytic Polishing

4. Is Electrolytic Polishing Graded?

1. What is electropolishing anyway?

Electropolishing (or Electrolytic Polishing, EP) is a polishing method in which metal ions are eluted from a metal surface to smooth the surface.
This adds functions such as “removing dirt such as oil and buff powder” and “inhibiting microbial adhesion” to metal surfaces.
In stainless steel, it also increases the chromium concentration on the metal surface and improves corrosion resistance.

For pharmaceutical manufacturers seeking to avoid contamination and corrosion resistance from surfaces, electropolishing is essential from the standpoint of GMP and validation.

▲The electropolished stainless surface has a slightly blackish sheen (tank in the center of the photo).

Electropolishing causes the metal surface to melt slightly.
It doesn’t melt so much that you can tell it’s fluffy when you touch it, but it’s about one-third the thickness of the copy paper. (20 ~ 30 microns)

It adds function by melting the surface thinly, so if you think of it as “reverse plating,” it may be easier to imagine.

2.Benefits of Electrolytic Polishing

Electrolytic polishing offers the following benefits:

1)To remove dirt that can’t be removed by regular cleaning
2)To make stains harder to leave and easier to remove
3)To improve corrosion resistance for preventing rust.

1)To remove dirt that can't be removed by regular cleaning

It can remove oil stains from processes such as rolling and pressing stainless steel or buffing after welding  (Also called “degrease”) .

These stains enter the complexly deformed stainless steel surface and are difficult to remove with regular cleaning.
Electropolishing dissolves the convex part of the surface and produces a smooth surface, allowing dirt to be exposed and easily removed.

Raw Material Surface

Buff-Polished Surface

Electrolytic Polished Surface

Rough surface

Mingled with buff powder and greasy dirt

Clean, smooth surface

2)To make stains harder to leave and easier to remove

It’s not just when it’s new that you can keep it clean.

You can see from the image above that the electropolished surface is very smooth and the surface area is reduced.
Compared to the condition in which the uneven surface collapses after buffing and there are many fine gaps, it can be kept clean with less dirt remaining and easier to remove even after repeated use and cleaning.

Research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture has also shown that electropolished surfaces are less likely to retain biofilms (collections of microorganisms).

In this way, electropolishing can easily maintain a sanitary metal surface.

3)To improve corrosion resistance for preventing rust

To overlap with the beginning of the article, electropolishing increases the chromium concentration on metal surfaces. This is called chromium rich, when the metal surface is covered with a strong passive coating, which improves corrosion resistance.

The passive film prevents the iron in stainless steel from trying to combine with oxygen (= rusting). It’s inherent in the stainless steel itself, but the chromium richness makes it stronger.

3. Disadvantages of Electrolytic Polishing

Electrolytic polishing itself does not have a negative impact on the metal surface, but there are secondary drawbacks (risks).

It is expensive. In our case, it costs about 2-3 times as much as a container finished with buffing. There is a risk of electrolyte entering gaps. From the design stage, it is necessary to consider applying electrolytic polishing and create a structure with fewer gaps.

4. Is Electrolytic Polishing Graded?

Electrolytic polishing is a great technique that has no direct drawbacks, but it may not produce the desired effect if the appropriate method is not used.

Even if it is a stainless steel container that has undergone electrolytic polishing,

it cannot be used without repeated washing…

Dirt adheres to the white tablets and turns them black…

Red rust (rouge) occurs…

These phenomena occur because the electrolytic polishing is insufficient. The difference is caused by the way the electrolytic polishing is applied.

From here, we would like to introduce our company’s commitment to electrolytic polishing as a stainless steel container manufacturer.

Standard EP method

Place the electrode plates on both sides of the electrolyzer containing the electrolyte (a mixture of phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid) and insert the product between them. When the positive (+) end of the DC electricity is connected to the product and the negative (-) end is connected to the electrode plate, current flows through the electrolyte and the product is subjected to electropolishing.

This method is suitable for electropolishing fine parts, but not for stainless steel containers such as those handled by our company. Although electropolishing should be applied firmly to the inner surface where the contents directly touch, this method results in weak current flow through the inner surface, leading to weak electropolishing.

Electrolytic polishing method to finish high grade by NITTO KINZOKU

Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo uses a method that ensures thorough electropolishing of the container’s interior.

The main difference from conventional methods is in the electrode plate. Electrolytic polishing is carried out using a custom electrode plate that is tailored to the container’s inner surface. This enables a stronger and more uniform treatment, maximizing the benefits of electropolishing.

Our ability to design, manufacture, and consistently electropolish each container allows us to prepare a dedicated electrode plate for every unit. This is the key to Nitto Kinzoku’s superior electropolishing quality.

We have delivered many electrolytic polishing products to pharmaceutical companies

Examples of electrolytically polished stainless steel products

Learn More
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New Year’s Holidays 2022-2023

Posted on by monovate

Our company’s business days for the year-end and New Year holidays will be as follows

Last business day of the year : December 27, 2022 (Tuesday)
New Year’s opening date : January 5, 2023 (Thursday)

Inquiries during the holiday period will be handled in order from January 5, 2023 (Thursday).
We would like to thank you for your patronage this year and look forward to serving you again in 2023.