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

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)

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MONOVATE’s Contribution to the SDGs

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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

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The lid won’t open! Solution for stainless steel container lids that do not open.

Posted on by monovate

As you may have experienced if you have already used our stainless steel containers, the lid of the container may occasionally fail to open.

The most common cause is the difference in air pressure between the inside and outside of the container. When the temperature inside the container is cooler than when the lid is closed, the inside of the container becomes depressurized, and the lid will not open in any way.

This phenomenon has been introduced in a previous column, but this article focuses on the actual situation in which the lid fails to open due to the difference in atmospheric pressure and how to deal with the problem.

CONTENTS.

1. why does the lid stop opening in the first place?

2. how the lid looks when the contents have cooled down

3. how to open a stuck lid

4. summary

1. why does the lid stop opening in the first place?

When a container is filled with a liquid or other substance and then the contents cool down, the lid will not open. Again, this is caused by the difference in air pressure between the inside and outside of the container.

This is the same phenomenon that occurs in everyday life when the lid of a bowl becomes stuck.

 

As the inside of the container cools with the lid closed, the water vapor inside the container gradually cools and returns to water.

In addition to this, the air inside the container will lose its balance with the atmospheric pressure outside the container due to the property of air that its volume decreases as it cools.

 

Thus, the lid cannot be opened when it is pushed by a relatively strong force from outside the container.

2. Appearance of the lid when the contents have cooled

We actually tried to reproduce the phenomenon of being unable to open the lid.

First, fill our lever-band and catch-clip type containers about 1/7th of the water and bring it to a boil. Then, the lids are immediately closed and cold water is applied from the outside of the containers for about 10 minutes to cool them.

When the inside of the container is thus cooled, the lid is pushed with strong force from outside the container as explained earlier. If you actually look at the lid, you will notice that the center of the container is indented more than normal.
We placed a straight scale on the center of the lid to check the dent.

With this amount of pressure, the lid will not open even if you pull it forcefully. In the first place, it is not desirable to open the lid by force, since the contents may spill out.

3. how to open a stuck lid

So, how do you open the lid?

The following is an explanation for each lid shape.

For lever band type...

With the lever-band type, the lid can be opened by inserting a microspatula between the packing and the body, allowing air to enter the container.

Just as when opening the lid of a bowl, the lid will open if air is allowed to enter the container and the air pressure inside is equal to the air pressure outside. The details are described below, but unlike CTH, it is relatively easy to open the lid as long as you have a spatula.

Incidentally, the temperature of the contents (water) when the container was opened was 33.6°C.

For catch-clip type

In the case of the catch-clip type, its shape makes it difficult to open with a spatula. If you try to force it in, you may damage the packing or lid, or even the spatula itself.

If you want to open the lid of the CTH, heat the container to restore the air pressure inside the container. You can also wrap it in a warm towel or boil it in hot water, but this time we will heat it over an open flame.

In this experiment, the lid was closed immediately after boiling, so we waited for a while until the temperature reached that level. The lid did not move at the beginning of heating, but when we heard a rumbling sound from inside, the lid opened easily. Since the boiling point decreases in a depressurized state, the lid opened at 86.6℃.

Learn More

4. Summary

If you are having trouble opening an existing container, try one of the following methods

  • CTL (lever band type): Insert a spatula-like object to let air in.
  • CTH (catch clip type): Heat the container to the temperature at which the lid was closed to restore air pressure.

If you are planning to purchase a container from now on, you can easily open the lid by installing a valve or air vent hole on the lid. We can also provide the microspatulas mentioned earlier.

If there is a possibility of putting warm contents into the container, please consider these measures.

Pressure Vessel Classification in Japan

Posted on by monovate

A pressure vessel is a container intended to apply pressure to the inside of a vessel.
In Japan, pressure vessels are classified into several types according to their specifications and contents. Therefore, this column explains the standards for pressure vessels in Japan, focusing on First Class Pressure Vessels and Second Class Pressure Vessels.

Contents of this article

  • Pressure vessels are divided into First Class Pressure Vessels, Second Class Pressure Vessels.
  • The key point is whether or not gas is generated inside the vessel when pressure is applied.
  • Pay attention to laws and regulations, and do not neglect inspections.

Pressure vessels can be dangerous under pressure, so standards are established according to the magnitude and conditions of the pressure.
If they are not strong enough, serious accidents can occur. In Japan, the Industrial Safety and Health Act and Ordinance on Safety of Boilers and Pressure Vessels specify the structure of pressure vessels in detail.

Vessels are classified according to their size and the amount of pressure they handle, and some vessels require certification.
Classifications include First Class Pressure Vessel, Small-sized Pressure Vessel, Second Class Pressure Vessel, and (simplified) vessels.

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Many results in the pharmaceutical industry. What is the highest grade of electropolishing?

Posted on by monovate

What is electropolishing?

Electropolishing is a polishing method in which metal ions are eluted from the metal surface to smooth the surface.
This process adds functions to the metal surface such as “removing oil, buffing powder, and other contaminants” and “inhibiting the adhesion of microorganisms.
For stainless steel, it also increases the chromium concentration on the metal surface and improves corrosion resistance.

Electropolishing is essential for pharmaceutical manufacturers who seek to avoid contamination and corrosion resistance from the surface, from the perspective of GMP and validation.

Electropolished stainless steel has a slightly shiny black surface (tank in the center of the photo).

When electrolytic polishing is applied, the surface of the metal will melt in a wisp.
It does not melt so much that you can tell by touching it with your hand that it has become flimsy. The thickness of the surface is about 1/3 of a sheet of copy paper. (20 to 30 μm)

The surface is thinly melted to add functionality, so it may be easy to imagine it as “reverse plating”.

Advantages of Electropolishing

Electropolishing has the following advantages

  • Removes stains that cannot be removed by normal cleaning
  • Resistance to residual stains and easy removal of stains
  • Improves corrosion resistance and rust resistance

Removes dirt that cannot be removed by normal cleaning

This product can remove (degrease) oil stains from stainless steel rolled, pressed, or buffed after welding.

These contaminants are embedded in the intricately deformed surface of stainless steel and are difficult to remove by normal cleaning.
Electropolishing melts the stains from the convex surfaces to a smooth surface, allowing the stains to surface and be easily removed.

Image of the surface

Material Surface
(Rough surface)

Buffing surface
(buffing powder, oil stains)

Electropolished surface
(smooth surface without contamination)

Less likely to leave stains and easier to remove

It is not only when the product is new that it remains clean.

As you can see from the image above, the electropolished surface is very smooth and has a smaller surface area.
Compared to the buffed surface, where the surface is uneven and has many small gaps, the new surface remains clean and easy to remove dirt even after repeated use and washing.

In addition, research conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture has shown that electropolished surfaces are less likely to retain biofilm (a collection of microorganisms).

Thus, electropolishing can easily maintain hygienic metal surfaces.

Improved corrosion resistance and rust resistance

As with the opening sentence, electropolishing increases the concentration of chromium on the metal surface. This is called chromium richness, and the metal surface is then covered with a strong passive film, which improves corrosion resistance.

The passive film prevents the iron contained in stainless steel from combining with oxygen (i.e., rusting). This is inherent in stainless steel itself, but the chromium richness makes it stronger.

Disadvantages of Electropolishing

Electropolishing itself does not have any negative effects on metal surfaces, but it does have a secondary disadvantage (risk).

  • Expensive.
    In our case, the price is about 2 to 3 times that of a buffed container.
    There is a risk of electrolytic solution getting into the gaps.
  • It is necessary to consider the application of electrolytic polishing from the design stage, and to make a structure with a small number of gaps.

Are there different grades of electrolytic polishing?

Electropolishing has no direct disadvantages and is a good thing, but if the proper technique is not used, the desired effect may not be achieved.

Have you ever had any of the following problems with electropolished stainless steel containers?

  • The container cannot be used without repeated washing.
  • White tablets became dirty and blackish.
  • Red rust (rouge) occurred.

These phenomena are caused by insufficient electropolishing.
The difference is caused by the way electropolishing is applied.

As a stainless steel container manufacturer, we would like to introduce our commitment to electropolishing.

General Electropolishing Methods

Electrode plates are placed on both sides of an electrolytic tank containing electrolytic solution (a mixed acid solution of phosphoric acid and sulfuric acid), and the product is placed between them.
When the product is connected to the + electrode and the electrode plates to the – electrode, an electric current flows through the electrolytic solution and the product is electropolished.

This method is suitable for electropolishing small parts, but not for stainless steel containers such as those we handle.
Although it is desirable to apply electropolishing firmly to the inner surface, which is in direct contact with the contents, with this method, the electric current flowing to the inner surface is weak, which means that electropolishing can only be applied weakly.

How Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo Electropolishes for High Grade Finishes

Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo uses a method that allows for firm electrolytic polishing to be applied to the inner surface of the container.

The difference from the general method is in the electrode plate.
Electropolishing is performed using special electrode plates that are dimensionally matched to the inner surface of the container.
This allows for stronger and more uniform processing, and the container is finished by taking full advantage of the benefits of electropolishing.

We are able to provide dedicated electrode plates tailored to each container because we are able to perform the entire process of container design, production, and electropolishing.
This is the secret to Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo’s high-grade electropolishing.

We have delivered many electrolytic polishing products to pharmaceutical companies

Electropolishing certificates can be issued, please contact us.

Examples of electrolytically polished stainless steel products

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Essential for factory automation! All about Customizing Stainless Steel Containers

Posted on by monovate

In recent years, the trend toward automation (robotization/factory automation) has accelerated in pharmaceutical and cosmetics factories. In NITTO KINZOKU KOGYO, customers who want to use stainless steel containers in automated production lines are increasing rapidly, especially the requests of custom-made containers.

By customizing the stainless steel container according to the equipment and work to be used, you can take full advantage of the equipment’s performance and solve process problems.

In this column, we introduce customizations and products recommended for stainless steel containers to be introduced into the automation process.

How to Make Stainless Steel Containers "Easy to Handle" in the Automation Process?

To match the size of your needs

NITTO KINZOKU’s containers can be manufactured with a size that matches your work allowable size, storage space, input amount, etc. Our company works primarily with customizing height dimensions.

We can also customize the inner diameter of the container, but basically, we have to choose from the following sizes. We can also make the container of the original diameter if you would like to bear the corresponding cost such as making the mold from scratch.

Inner Diameter of our company Standard Lineup (mm)

180/210/240/270/300/330/360/387/430/470/565/635/770/1000

*Other sizes may be available. 

* The available sizes may also be limited depending on the container specifications.

To avoid interference

For example, you can customize the mounting position when the handle on the container interferes. If you don’t need the handle itself, you can choose “No Handle”.

To make it easy holding

When there is a lifting action

 

If you have an action like “ to lift the container and put it on a different pallet ”, you might want to customize it by attaching a bracket to the side of the container. The bracket can be designed to meet the specifications of the robot, so it can be held securely.

If there is no interference or other problems, you can install both a handle for people and a robot bracket.

* The handles on ordinary containers are designed to be handled by human hands and are not intended for use in robots or lifters.

When there is a grasping motion

If you have needs like “grab and flip ” handling action, you might want to customize it by machining ribs on the sides of the container. By processing the width and position of the rib according to the width of the arm and claw on the grip side, it is hard to shift and can be firmly grasped. Ribs also have the effect of increasing the strength of the container side.

The jacket can be attached to the outer surface of the container to customize the size to match the robot hand chuck.

Enhance the Stability

If the contents are heavy, the bottom of the container may swell outward, causing the container to shake and become unstable when placed or transported on a conveyor. In this case, customizing the bottom is recommended. For example, if you attach a “Skirt” to the lower part of the container, the bottom will not touch the conveyor and stability will be improved.

It can also be customized to reinforce the bottom by attaching a plate that matches the diameter of the bottom to the outside of the bottom. The bottom is hard to deform and stability is improved. It is also possible to raise the thickness of the container itself without using a reinforcing plate.

You can also customize the bottom by embossing it to increase its strength of the bottom. In addition to increasing the strength of the bottom to prevent it from bulging, the center of the bottom, which tends to bulge, does not come in contact with the conveyor, which improves the stability.

For Easy-Opening

Open by Just Lifting the Lid


If the lid is easy to open and close, it will be easy to be automated. It is recommended to customize the container based on a cover type container, rather than an airtight container with parts to fix the lid. The cover can also be customized with a handle or bracket that matches the robot hand.

Just turn the cap to open it!


If rotating (twisting) motion is possible, a container with a screw cap is recommended. Screws are mainly used in small-capacity bottles. It is also airtight compared to a cap lid.

How to Make Stainless Steel Containers "Easy to Wash" in an Automated Process?

Improve the cleanability of the inner surface of the container

It is recommended to apply electrolytic polishing to the inner surface of the container which directly touches the contents so that it does not get dirty easily. By electrolytic polishing, the inner surface of the container, the residue on the surface is removed and the surface becomes smooth, preventing dirt from sticking.

If you are handling highly viscous liquids, we recommend you to apply fluorine resin coating. It has features such as non-stickiness, which prevents most substances from sticking, and water repellency, which repels water and oil, and can remove dirt quickly.

Improve the washability of the outer surface of the container

There are many parts on the outer surface of the container, and it is a place where unevenness occurs after washing. The parts where dirt and cleaning solution are likely to remain can be customized in consideration of cleanability. Our company can propose sanitary specifications that are superior in cleanability.

For example, we recommend customizing the edge of the container with a curl seal (fully circumferential welding) that completely closes the gap. 

For the handle, we recommend a round bar handle (sanitary type) that can be sealed by welding all the mounting parts.

How to Make Stainless Steel Containers "Manageable" in the Automation Process?

Adding Laser Mark to the Container

Laser-marking is recommended because it is a printing method that does not peel off and does not disappear even after washing, and also prevents tampering. The original control number or QR code can be printed on the side of the container or on the lid.

Add a label pad

It is recommended to add a seal seat which is easy to peel off the label when the label is reattached after managing with bar code labels.

Add a card holder

If you use a paper card, we recommend adding a card holder to prevent it from getting wet and dirty.

Management with RFID
When managed by RFID, the container can be managed by attaching an RF tag. You can customize the container according to how the RF tag is installed.

Designed and manufactured stainless steel containers for automation and robotization

Please let us know the details such as the shape of the container you want, the usage, and the working condition. We will propose the most suitable stainless steel container for you. Please feel free to contact us for information such as product availability and quotation.

3 Concerns about Sterilization of Stainless Steel Products

Posted on by monovate

3 Concerns about Sterilization of Stainless Steel Products

Sterilization of clean containers is important in the manufacture and storage of cannabis and CBD products.

Stainless steel can be sterilized, but some stainless steel products can and cannot be sterilized.

Although there are various types of sterilization, this time we will introduce the case of sterilizing a stainless steel container (SUS 304/SUS 316 L) manufactured by Nitto Metal Industry by autoclaving (autoclave sterilization/121 °C for 20 minutes).

Please feel free to inquire about the sterilization of each product.

Contents

  • I’m looking for a rust and corrosion resistant container that doesn’t harm Cannabis.
  • To prevent contamination with CBD oil
  • be looking for a product that puts safety first
  • Looking for products that focus on functionality and Cannabis quality over cost

Can stainless steel products be sterilized?

As long as the product is made of all stainless steel (made of only stainless steel) and has no parts such as resin or rubber attached, sterilization in an autoclave is basically possible.

Do you have an image that stainless steel products are used in hospitals and laboratories?

Examples of Stainless Steel Products Requiring Confirmation of Sterilization

・Be equipped with resin components
・Comes with rubber parts such as packing
・have casters
・Be labeled

In such products, even though the stainless steel part can be sterilized, there is a possibility that the attached parts cannot be sterilized (for example, the heat resistant temperature of the parts is too low to be sterilized), so it is necessary to check beforehand.

Check the heat resistance of the product or contact our company.

The silicon packing ([PQA] [PQB] [PQL]) that comes with the standard our company stainless steel sealed container can be sterilized by steam.

Check the heat resistance of the product or contact our company.

What should I be careful about sterilizing stainless steel products?

・Remove parts that cannot be sterilized

・Remove the parts that can be removed so that it can be sterilized to every corner.

・Keep the container open (with the lid open) and put it in the sterilizer.

・Put small parts such as tools in a basket.

・Dry well after sterilization

Refer to the instructions for using your sterilizer.

Sterilize stainless steel products so they don't rust?

Stainless steel is not rustproof, but it is a rustproof metal, and it will rust if the rust condition is satisfied.

For example, if water droplets remain after sterilization, they may rust and become rusty in the same way as normal cleaning. Therefore, please dry thoroughly after sterilization.

Stainless steel products that are highly recommended if sterilization is a prerequisite

Stainless steel products that do not easily collect water droplets and allow smooth drying after sterilization

There is a stainless steel product with improved sanitary property by eliminating the part where dirt and water accumulate.

Since there is no part where water enters the product body, it not only dries smoothly after sterilization, but also has excellent washability and can be used to prevent contamination and contamination.

Learn More

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Stainless Steel Trolley for Autoclave Sterilization

The standard container truck cannot be sterilized.

“KMS-A” is a sterilizable carriage with casters that can be sterilized in an autoclave.

Learn More

Stainless Steel Products Supporting Sterilization

We also manufacture stainless steel sterilization cans and baskets that are useful for placing instruments in sterilization machines.

Can be custom-designed and manufactured according to the size of the sterilizer and the size of the instrument to be inserted.

It is possible to order “I want to prioritize the usability here”.

Our company’s containers are particularly well received by Japanese pharmaceutical manufacturers. We have been supplying to generic pharmaceutical companies and health food manufacturers including Megapharma for many years.
In addition to considering applications and usage environments, we can design and manufacture stainless steel products that meet customer needs, such as “We want products that are suitable for sterilization” and “We want to place importance on measures against contamination.”.
If you are looking for a stainless steel product, please feel free to contact us.
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Do you know the high grade material “SUS 316 L” of rust-resistant stainless steel?

Posted on by monovate

It is important to maintain durability, light resistance, cleaning, and sterilization in the production and storage of cannabis-oriented products.

The stainless steel container is held in place by four equally spaced strong clamps, the underside of which is bordered by silicon. These combinations maintain airtightness and deodorization.

This time, we will introduce the details of the “material” of stainless steel containers that are used in pharmaceuticals and Cannabis plants.

We recommend it to people like this.

  • I’m looking for a rust and corrosion resistant container that doesn’t harm Cannabis.
  • To prevent contamination with CBD oil
  • be looking for a product that puts safety first
  • Looking for products that focus on functionality and Cannabis quality over cost

Stainless steel is famous as a rust-resistant metal, but there are various kinds of stainless steel materials, and the strength of corrosion resistance is different. If you’re looking for a stainless steel container that’s more secure and functional than cheaper, this article should help.

What is rust-resistant stainless steel?

Generally, in the pharmaceutical industry and the food industry, the following materials are called high-grade stainless steel materials.

SUS316L

SUS 316L is a material that is more resistant to corrosion than ordinary stainless steel.

(The type of stainless steel is indicated in accordance with JIS standards. “SUS” represents stainless steel, followed by a number representing each steel type.)

One of the important factors in the quality of containers is "corrosion resistance."

If you store and store cannabis or CBD material, you need to avoid the risk of foreign material getting into it as much as possible, but if you use metal containers, the risk of “rusting” is always there.

If rust occurs, the following accidents could occur.

・Fragments of the rusted body get mixed into the content liquid and powder.

・Crackage or loss of rusted parts.

It is very important to avoid the risk of “rusting” and “corrosion”, especially in pharmaceutical and food manufacturing factories where high hygiene standards are needed.

Many stainless steel products, known as “rust-resistant,” are widely used in such fields.

Stainless steel containers can be stored appropriately while avoiding corrosion of the container body.

Different stainless steel materials have different performance of corrosion resistance

SUS 304 widely used worldwide

The stainless steel that we touch the most in our life is SUS 304.

The stainless steel material SUS 304 is said to be the most common type of steel and is used in a variety of places, including food equipment, general scientific equipment, building materials, the paper industry, the rolling stock industry, and kitchen equipment.

Our company also uses SUS 304 as a standard material.

SUS 316 with improved corrosion resistance

The material with higher corrosion resistance performance than SUS 304 is SUS 316.

There is a component called “molybdenum” which is not contained in SUS 304.

This molybdenum makes the passive film thicker and improves corrosion resistance.

Improved corrosion resistance in welding! High Grade Material SUS 316L

SUS316L is a material invented as an “updated version” of SUS316.

Metal has the property that while heat is applied during processing,  the metal material becomes easy to corrode and break.

SUS 316L is a low-carbon type stainless steel with a low carbon ratio contained in SUS 316. It is a material that is resistant to corrosion (intergranular corrosion) at the weld zone where parts are joined together.

SUS 316L is generally recognized as a high-grade model of stainless steel.

The quality of the cannabis is important, but it is also important to keep the high quality of the cannabis. Material selection is very important.

The following stainless steel container are made of SUS316L with excellent performance of corrosion resistance.

316 L General Purpose Container(Handle Type)

316 L Sealed Container (Clip Type)

316 316 L Sealed Container (Band Type)

Ferrule Type 316 L Straight Bottle

Sanitary Beaker SUS316L

SUS316 L Sanitary Tray

Nitto Kinzoku Kogyo can manufacture every container with SUS 316L material.

The container body can be changed to SUS 316 L material.
Most of the products on the product page are made of SUS 304, but it is possible to make them with SUS 316L material.
We will change the material of the body part where the liquid and powder you handle come into contact to SUS 316 L.
We also accept customized orders for products made by SUS 316 L materials. Please feel free to contact us.

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