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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Double isolation valves with integrated vent for certified isolation and sterile sampling points

The IMI PBM Igenix® Block & Bleed range is designed for processes where the isolation of a section must be proven, not just performed: work on pressurised equipment, separation of safety zones, sterile sampling points, isolation between incompatible product lines.

Two successive seals (double block) separated by a vent port (bleed) make it possible to verify the absence of leakage between the two blocks by pressure check at the vent, without dismantling or residual doubt.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, fine chemicals and aseptic manufacturing, at critical safety points, sterile sampling points and interfaces between CIP and product lines.

Principle and benefits in sterile processes

On a section isolated by a single valve, an internal leak can only be detected after the fact, once contamination has already reached downstream.

In a conventional installation with two separate valves divided by a vent branch, the dead volume between the two valves creates a zone not swept by CIP/SIP and a contamination risk.

The Block & Bleed integrates both seals and the vent in a single compact body, with a CIP-sweepable fluid path and minimised dead volume.

Isolation is verified by venting to atmosphere: any leakage from the upstream block immediately appears as residual pressure at the vent, with no ambiguity or major intervention.

Configuration and operation

A single stem controls two balls in series mounted in a single body.

The “isolated” position simultaneously closes both blocks and opens the vent port to atmosphere, allowing leak-tightness verification and zeroing of the isolated section.

The “service” position opens the main passage and closes the vent.

Alternative configuration with independent controls for both blocks and the vent, available for processes where sequencing must be enforced (locking, interlock).

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard, forged.

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing fluids and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and sealing

Standard V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats. FKM and EPDM alternatives available depending on chemical compatibility and temperature.

USP Class VI elastomers, FDA-compliant materials.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream on each of the two blocks, compliant with ASME BPE hygienic requirements.

Full vacuum rated as standard.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

Compensates for normal seat wear and extends the valve’s service life.

Elimination of O-rings in the fluid path, removing as many retention and potential contamination points.

Hygienic design and CIP

Main fluid path sweepable by CIP, with no dead zone between the two blocks.

Vent port designed to fully drain the intermediate volume by gravity, allowing SIP sterilisation of the isolated section and drainability between batches.

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Mechanical finishes and electropolishing available according to application requirements.

Surface finish

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/2″ to 3″ (DN 15 to DN 80) on the main line, vent port sized for sampling or zeroing depending on use.

Available main line and vent connections: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread, flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Reduced axial length compared with an equivalent two-separate-valve installation, making integration into skids and compact manifolds easier.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, reduced ranges with FKM or EPDM seals depending on compatibility.

SIP compatible under repeated cycling, subject to appropriate elastomer selection.

Actuation

Manual operation by lockable handle or automation.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface on the stem axes, ensuring precise alignment with pneumatic or electric actuators.

On configurations with enforced sequential operation, mechanical trapped-key interlocking is available to guarantee the operating sequence (upstream block, vent, downstream block).

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number, flow direction and position markings.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Ball valves with integrated cleaning for loaded, viscous or clogging fluids

The IMI PBM Self-Cleaning Ball Valve range is designed for processes where the fluid clogs the body cavity of a standard ball valve: products loaded with solid particles, viscous media, sugary or protein-rich products with a strong tendency to crystallise, cell cultures, slurries, opaque cosmetic products.

With these fluids, the body cavity behind the ball of a conventional 2-way valve retains a residual volume that becomes inaccessible to CIP and forms a cumulative deposit with each cycle.

The Self-Cleaning design incorporates through-holes and milled flats into the ball, placing the body cavity in direct communication with the main flow in the fully open position.

CIP thus sweeps the entire internal volume of the valve without dismantling or a specific cycle.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food processing (syrups, dairy products, juices), cosmetics and fine chemicals on processes with a high clogging risk or demanding CIP qualification.

Principle and benefits in CIP

On a standard 2-way ball valve, the body cavity between the ball and the body forms a dead volume of about 5 to 15 % of the valve’s internal volume depending on size.

In the open position, this volume is isolated from the main flow by the geometry of the ball itself: the cleaning fluid passes in front of the ball but does not sweep the rear cavity.

The Self-Cleaning valve solves this problem by design: through-holes in the ball or milled flats on its sides place the cavity in communication with the flow during each CIP cycle.

Cleaning takes place in the open position, with no specific operation and no “cavity purge” procedure to include in the CIP cycle.

Two main series

Mechanical finishes and electropolishing available for both series.

Surface treatments without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free), compliant with current pharma requirements.

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard, forged (Series 8) or cast (Series 9).

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing fluids and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Ball configuration

Ball machined with through-holes (drain holes) and/or side milled flats, calibrated according to the fluid type and the customer’s CIP protocol.

Three main configurations:

Transverse holes through the ball, suited to very free-flowing fluids with fine particles.

Flats on the sides of the ball, suited to viscous fluids where the geometry must follow the fluid’s movement.

Combination of holes + flats for demanding cases (cell culture, fermented products, high-viscosity loaded products).

Full port retained in the open position, with no flow restriction or significant turbulence.

Seats, seals and sealing

Standard V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats. FKM and EPDM alternatives available depending on chemical compatibility and temperature.

USP Class VI elastomers, FDA-compliant materials.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream in the closed position, despite the holes in the ball: the seats are positioned outside the through-hole zone and ensure complete process isolation.

Full vacuum rated as standard.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

Compensates for normal seat wear over cycles, which is particularly critical on valves handling abrasive fluids (mineral fillers, crystals).

Hygienic and fire-rated design

Continuous fluid path that is swept in the open position, with no retention zone accessible only by dismantling.

CIP/SIP compatible under repeated cycling without a specific procedure.

Sanitary fire-rated configuration available for flammable fluids in classified environments, with isolation of the process medium maintained even in the event of an external fire.

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Surface finish

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/2″ to 6″ (DN 15 to DN 150).

Hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp) connections, extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread, compression fittings or flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on series and seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, reduced ranges with FKM or EPDM seals depending on compatibility.

Actuation

Manual operation by patented lockable handle or automation.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface on the stem axis, ensuring precise alignment with the pneumatic or electric actuator and extending cycle life.

Full range of actuators, limit switch boxes and positioners available.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, ball configuration, serial number.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Fully draining tank outlet ball valve, standard and fire-rated versions

The IMI PBM Flush Tank range is designed for tank outlet isolation with full drainage and no dead zone above the ball.

Unlike a 2-way ball valve mounted on a branch, where the section between the tank and the valve creates a systematic dead leg, the tank bottom valve is integrated directly under the tank with a pad radius that matches the geometry of the dished bottom.

The fluid flows with no retention point, the tank drains completely and CIP sweeps the whole assembly without a specific procedure.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food processing, cosmetics and fine chemicals, on mixing tanks, reactors, bioreactors, dissolution tanks and fermenters.

Available configurations

Three main configurations, adapted to the tank geometry and automation constraints:

The Angle Stem version is specified when the space under the tank is insufficient for a vertical axial actuator or when the heating jacket prevents direct passage.

The inclined stem offsets the actuator away from the tank bottom footprint.

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard.

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing fluids and in Hastelloy® C-22 or C-276 for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and sealing

Standard V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats. FKM and EPDM alternatives available depending on chemical compatibility and temperature.

Encapsulated body gaskets to minimise PTFE cold flow and eliminate cavities where fluid could accumulate.

USP Class VI elastomers, FDA-compliant materials.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream, allowing positive isolation between the tank and the downstream line.

Full vacuum rated as standard, a critical condition for post-SIP cooling phases and vacuum draining.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

Compensates for normal seat wear and extends the valve’s service life.

Particularly critical on tank bottom valves, whose removal requires the tank to be drained first.

Hygienic design and drainage

Pad radius machined to match the tank bottom geometry and eliminate the pocket above the ball.

No retention zone at the tank outlet, full gravity drainage in the open position.

Body cavity fillers (body fillers) available as an option to minimise zones where fluid could be trapped.

Bottom-entry stem to prevent any risk of accidental blow-out under pressure: the stem can only be removed through the dismantled valve body, not from the actuator.

Surface finish

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Fire-Rated solutions (FT Series 6)

The FT Series 6 version is certified fire-safe according to API-607, which defines a standardised exposure test to a standard flame: the valve, filled and pressurised, is subjected to a flame of about 750 °C for a defined period, then leakage is measured before, during and after exposure, as well as after water cooling.

The API-607 certificate validates that the valve maintains bubble-tight sealing at the body and seats during and after the fire.

Recommended configuration for tanks containing flammable fluids: pharma solvents (ethanol, isopropanol, acetone), monomers, hot oils, process gases.

It is also specified in classified ATEX zones and on processes subject to fire risk assessment.

Specific features of the fire-rated version: secondary metal seats taking over after PTFE destruction in the event of fire, graphite body seals, graphite stem packing, body and ball materials in 316L (ASTM A351 CF3M) or Hastelloy® C-276 to specification.

Compatible with the three-piece swing-out design for routine maintenance.

Sizes available in the fire-rated version: 1/2″ to 4″.

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1″ to 6″ (DN 25 to DN 150), 8″ version on request.

Tank-side connections: machined radius matching the tank bottom for direct welding, or hygienic clamp connection on a short branch.

Outlet-side connection: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding, FNPT thread, ANSI class 150# RF flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on series and seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, reduced ranges with FKM or EPDM seals depending on compatibility.

In the fire-rated version, fire resistance certified to API-607 under standardised conditions, with residual leakage compliant with the standard’s requirements.

Actuation

Manual operation by stainless steel handle with non-slip vinyl coating, visual position indicating the open/closed state of the valve.

Reinforced stem/ball engagement for high-torque applications (viscous, crystallised fluids).

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface for automation, precise alignment with pneumatic or electric actuators.

Single-acting spring-return actuators (fail-safe close) available for fail-safe processes, particularly in combination with the fire-rated version.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers, an FDA statement for product-contact materials and an API-607 qualification certificate for the fire-rated version.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number, “Fire Safe API-607” mention where applicable.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends

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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Zero dead leg branch valve for WFI, PW and clean steam loops

The IMI PBM Z-Ball® range is designed for a specific point in pharmaceutical loops: the point-of-use branch on a WFI, PW or clean steam loop.

In a conventional installation, this branch combines a diaphragm valve at the point of use and a ball valve on the main loop, separated by a length of pipework.

This section is the dead leg: the loop fluid flows past it without sweeping it, and a column stagnates between the two valves. ASME BPE-2016 sets the limit at 2×D (twice the branch diameter); beyond that, the section becomes a contamination point and a reason for rejection during qualification.

The Z-Ball® combines both functions in a single compact body. The main loop passes through the valve, the point-of-use branch exits perpendicularly, and the internal geometry eliminates the dead section by design.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and aseptic manufacturing, on WFI loops, PW networks, clean steam distribution and sterile barriers with multiple points of use.

Principle and benefits on point-of-use loops

A WFI loop typically serves 15 to 40 points of use on the same circuit. Each conventional branch generates a dead leg of several cm of stagnant tube, where the temperature can drop and rouging starts faster than elsewhere on the loop.

On a loop with 50 points of use, this represents as many zones to monitor during qualification, to passivate and to requalify periodically.

The Z-Ball® reduces this dead leg to measurable zero. The ball, perpendicular to the main flow, isolates or opens the point of use without introducing a stagnant section. The loop continues to sweep the valve body with each circulation, preventing thermal stratification and the onset of rouging at that location.

It replaces the diaphragm + ball + intermediate tube combination with a single component, reducing the number of orbital welds and the total installation cost.

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard, forged.

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing fluids and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and sealing

Standard V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats. FKM and EPDM alternatives available depending on chemical compatibility and temperature.

USP Class VI elastomers, FDA-compliant materials.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream at the point of use, independent of circulation in the main loop.

Full vacuum rated as standard, a critical condition for post-SIP cooling phases.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

Compensates for normal seat wear over cycles.

On a WFI loop operating 24/7 at 80 °C with a point of use cycled several times a day, this compensation avoids premature valve replacement and extends service life by several years.

Hygienic design and drainage

Body fully drainable in both open and closed positions, with no residual accumulation zone.

Continuous fluid path on the main loop, regardless of the ball position on the point-of-use side.

Optional purge port integrated into the body for condensate drainage in clean steam service or for zeroing between batches.

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Clean steam service configuration

During clean steam header sterilisation, the Z-Ball® is opened to introduce steam into the process loop.

In the closed position, the integrated purge port drains condensate to a steam trap, preventing the build-up of condensed water that would compromise sterility at the next opening and create a cold spot.

This configuration replaces the traditional “loop valve + steam trap + return” assembly with a single component.

Surface finish

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/2″ to 4″ (DN 15 to DN 100) on the main loop, branch port sized from 1/2″ to 2″ according to point-of-use flow.

Available connections: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread, flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, reduced ranges with FKM or EPDM seals depending on compatibility.

SIP compatible under repeated cycling (typically several cycles per day at a sterile point of use), subject to appropriate elastomer selection.

Actuation

Manual operation by lockable handle or automation.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface on the stem axis, precise alignment with pneumatic or electric actuator and extended cycle life.

Network automation available as an option (DeviceNet and equivalents) for integration on multi-point automated skids.

Single-acting spring-return actuators (fail-safe close) available to guarantee closure of the point of use in the event of compressed air loss.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number, main loop flow direction.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Sampling valve for quality control and process monitoring

The IMI PBM Rising Stem Sampling Valve range is designed for a single purpose: precise, repeatable process sampling, without contaminating the remaining fluid and without disturbing the main line.

Unlike a ball valve used for sampling (direct fluid path, all-or-nothing flow, difficult to control at small openings), the rising stem valve offers gradual flow control over more than one turn, making sampling controllable from drop-by-drop to a continuous stream.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, fine chemicals, brewing, winemaking, dairy and food processing, at quality control points, bacteriological sampling, fermentation monitoring and sterility testing.

Principle and benefits in sampling

On a ball valve used for sampling, flow goes from zero to maximum over a quarter turn, making it impossible to slowly fill a sterile vial or finely adjust a sample volume.

In addition, the ball cavity retains a residual volume between two samples, with a risk of cross-contamination and distorted analyses.

The rising stem valve progressively raises a cone-shaped plug by turning the handwheel: flow increases linearly over about 1.25 turns from the closed position.

The total Cv at full opening remains moderate (about 1.0 gpm), calibrated for sampling rather than transfer.

The body geometry eliminates retention zones between two samples and prevents carry-over from one batch to the next.

Available configurations

Three main configurations, selected according to connection geometry and accessibility:

Sample outlet can be swivelled and angled on 2-piece versions, to adapt the flow to the vial or collection tube without modifying the pipework.

Body and wetted-part materials

316L stainless steel as standard, forged or machined from solid depending on the version.

Alternatives available in Hastelloy® C-276 and C-22 for corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and sealing

Standard TFM™ (modified PTFE) seats for plug/body sealing.

Stem O-ring in USP Class VI FKM (Viton) as standard, EPDM alternative available for processes incompatible with FKM (steam, certain amines).

Bubble-tight sealing in the closed position, suited to maintaining process sterility between two samples.

Number of moving parts minimised to reduce retention and potential contamination points.

Hygienic design

Continuous, drainable fluid path, with no dead zone between the plug and the main line.

SIP and autoclave compatible, allowing complete sterilisation of the valve between two sampling campaigns.

3-A certification available for dairy and beverage applications, where compliance with 3-A Sanitary Standards is mandatory.

Surface finish

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Dimensions and connections

Standard inlet diameter 1/4″ (6.35 mm), calibrated for sampling flow.

Process-side connections available as weld or 1/2″ hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp).

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Sample outlet with sanitary thread, flanged nozzle or hose barb for vial connection depending on the version.

Operating range

Operating pressure compatible with typical sampling conditions on WFI and clean steam loops; maximum pressure depending on series and seat material, specified in the technical bulletin.

Full vacuum rated as standard.

Temperature up to 175 °C with EPDM seals, suitable for sampling on 80 °C WFI loops and 121 °C SIP cycles.

Autoclavable with partial disassembly according to the manufacturer’s protocol.

Actuation

Manual operation by control handwheel, multi-turn rotation for fine flow control.

Locking in the closed position available to prevent accidental opening.

Automated version with linear actuator available on request for sequenced sampling stations.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers, an FDA statement for product-contact materials and a 3-A certificate when that version is specified.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Pinch valve for single-use circuits, ultrafiltration and chromatography

The IMI PBM Igenix® Pinch Valve range is based on a radically different principle from ball or diaphragm valves: the fluid never comes into contact with the valve body.

The mechanism pinches a flexible or braided tube from the outside until it is fully closed, then releases it on opening.

Only the tube is in contact with the product, which by design eliminates any cross-contamination between batches and removes the need to clean the valve between campaigns.

Used in biotechnology for single-use systems, in ultrafiltration (UF) purification, in chromatography, in vaccine manufacturing and cell therapies, as well as in pharma R&D and benchtop laboratories.

Principle and benefits in single-use

On a conventional single-use circuit, traditional valves require either fluid contact (with cleaning, requalification and contamination risk issues) or integration into the disposable manifold (cost, complexity, limited valve reuse).

The Pinch Valve solves both problems: the valve is reusable without cleaning, and the tube is replaced with the single-use kit.

No product cross-over possible between two successive batches, no valve requalification at each campaign, no contamination of the fluid by the valve’s elastomers or metals.

Available configurations

Two main operating modes:

Manual, by graduated control knob, suited to benchtop systems, laboratory lines and manual control points on production skids. Can be locked in the open or closed position.

Automated, by integrated pneumatic actuator, suited to integration on ultrafiltration skids, chromatography columns or automated dissolution systems. Optional position sensors and limit switches for status feedback to the PLC.

Body and component materials

Valve body in 300 series stainless steel, aluminium or engineering plastic depending on the version.

Plunger (pincer) in 300 series stainless steel for wear resistance under repeated cycling.

None of these parts comes into contact with the process fluid.

Stem O-rings in USP Class VI FKM (Viton). Handle and safety components (knob, cover, retaining nut) in acetal, combining chemical resistance and mechanical robustness for intensive manual use.

As the body is not wetted, its chemical compatibility is not a selection criterion: the valve can be used with any fluid compatible with the chosen tube (platinum-cured silicone, C-Flex, PharMed, TPE), including aggressive solvents, acids or highly active biological media.

Compatible tubes

Compatible with flexible and braided tubes up to 1″ (25.4 mm) inside diameter and 1-3/8″ (35 mm) outside diameter.

Platinum-cured silicone, C-Flex®, PharMed® BPT, TPE and other USP Class VI qualified pharma elastomers.

Installation on tubing in place, without cutting or process interruption: the valve opens sideways, the tube is placed in it, and the valve closes around it.

Tube replacement at single-use campaign changeover, without removing the valve from the skid.

Body surface finish

As the valve body is outside the fluid path, the surface finish only concerns compatibility with external cleaning protocols in classified rooms.

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/2″ to 1″ (corresponding to the nominal diameter of the pinched tube).

The valve body is mounted on the skid by integrated mounting brackets or a standard rail support, with no fluid connection (no flange, no clamp, no weld).

Installation does not depend on ASME BPE or DIN dimensional standards, since the tube forms the interface with the circuit.

Operating range

Fluid-side operating pressure: depends on the chosen tube, typically 2 to 4 bar for pharma silicone, up to 7 bar for reinforced braided tube.

Actuator pressure: from 4.1 bar (60 psig) for the pneumatic version, allowing direct supply from standard skid compressed air.

Operating temperature: depends on the tube and its qualification range. The valve itself accepts a range of -20 °C to +80 °C in normal use.

Actuation and status feedback

Single-acting or double-acting pneumatic actuator, mounted directly on the valve body, supplied by a standard 24 V solenoid valve.

Integrable inductive or optical limit sensors for open/closed status feedback to the PLC.

ATEX version available for classified zones.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a material certificate of conformity for the main components, a USP Class VI declaration for stem elastomers, and a statement certifying its non-product-contact design.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, serial number.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve.

Flexible tubes are not supplied with the valve but can be sourced separately as a qualified pack.

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IMI PBM Valve Solutions – API-607 certified ball valves for flammable fluids in hygienic environments

The IMI PBM sanitary fire-safe range includes 2-way and tank-bottom ball valves qualified to API-607 for use with flammable fluids in hygienic processes.

It meets a need shared across pharma, biotech, fine chemicals and cosmetics: processes regularly use flammable solvents (ethanol, isopropanol, acetone, methanol) on skids in ATEX zones, where the slightest valve leak in the event of an external fire turns a local event into fire propagation.

A standard valve, even if bubble-tight when cold, loses its PTFE seats at 300 °C and leaks under flame. The fire-safe range incorporates secondary metal seats that take over after the PTFE is destroyed and maintain sealing during and after the fire.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, fine chemicals and cosmetics, on solvent stations, extraction lines, alcohol dissolution tanks, purification circuits and classified ATEX zones.

Two main series in the sanitary range

Fire-safe cryogenic configuration also available for low-temperature processes (liquefied gases, liquid nitrogen) where flame exposure remains a risk.

API-607 standard and test principle

API-607 certification (Fire Test for Quarter-Turn Valves and Valves Equipped with Non-metallic Seats) is the reference standard for quarter-turn valves with soft seats.

The test takes place in three phases: the valve, filled and pressurised, is subjected to an external flame reaching 750 °C within the first two minutes and then 820 °C for 30 minutes.

During exposure, external leakage (body, stem, flanges) must remain below the allowable threshold. After water cooling, the valve must still be operable and internal leakage through the seats must remain compliant.

The certificate guarantees that an internal leak does not turn into fire propagation through the process piping.

Body and wetted-part materials

316L stainless steel (ASTM A351 CF3M) as standard, with sanitary surface treatment.

Alternatives available in Hastelloy® C-276 and other ASME B16.34-listed materials to specification.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Fire-safe seats, seals and sealing

Standard V-TEF™ or TFM™ (modified PTFE) primary seats for normal use, FDA-compliant and USP Class VI.

Secondary metal seats integrated into the body, set back from the PTFE seats. As long as the PTFE is intact, these metal seats are not engaged. In the event of fire, the PTFE degrades above 300 °C, the ball comes into direct contact with the metal seat and sealing is maintained by metal-to-metal contact.

High-temperature graphite body seals, graphite packing rings with white TFM in process contact, isolated from the medium in normal operation.

Live-loaded stem packing with Belleville springs that compensate for thermal settlement and maintain stem sealing during flame exposure.

Three-piece swing-out design

Three-piece swing-out body, allowing visual inspection of the ball and seats, replacement of consumables and cleaning without dismantling the pipework or requalifying orbital welds.

This design is retained in the fire-safe version: routine maintenance remains possible without removing the valve.

True-Bore® design and hygiene

Full port, with a ball diameter equal to the inside diameter of the connected tube. Continuous, hygienic fluid path compliant with GMP requirements, with no flow restriction.

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Surface finish

Dimensions and connections

Standard sizes 1/2″ to 4″ (DN 15 to DN 100), special configurations on request.

Available connections: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding (controlled sulphur for weldability), sanitary thread, ANSI class 150# or 300# RF flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on series and seat material.

Normal service temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, reduced ranges with alternative seals.

Under fire conditions, API-607 certified fire resistance: sealing maintained for 30 minutes under flame at 820 °C and residual functionality after cooling.

Cryogenic version available down to -196 °C with API-607 certification retained.

Actuation

Manual operation by patented lockable handle with ELT (Electro-Thermal Link) option for automatic closure if the ambient temperature is exceeded.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface for automation, precise alignment with single-acting spring-return pneumatic actuator (fail-safe close).

Thermal fuse (fusible link) available on the actuator: in the event of an external fire, the fusible link breaks and releases the return spring, which closes the valve regardless of compressed air availability.

This mechanical redundancy is the safety belt in ATEX zones when the PLC loses power.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for primary elastomers, an FDA statement for product-contact materials, and an API-607 qualification certificate with test report number.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number, “Fire Safe API-607” mention with qualification date.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

View specifications

View the IMI PBM catalogue

Link to IMI PBM

IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Ball valves with integrated drain for condensate purging and SIP sterilisation

The IMI PBM Clean Steam Trap range is designed for low points in clean steam networks and the ends of SIP loops where condensate must be purged continuously, without compromising sterility or creating a cold spot.

It combines the isolation valve function and the purge function in a single body, eliminating the intermediate branch, the fitting, the associated dead leg and the potential contamination point.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and aseptic manufacturing, at SIP line ends, clean steam distribution low points, bioreactor drains and steam quality control points.

Principle and benefits in SIP

On a conventional SIP line, condensate is purged through a dedicated valve branched downstream of the isolation valve.

This branch creates a dead leg between the valve and the purge point, where steam struggles to reach sterilisation temperature. It is a recurring non-sterility point during qualification.

The Clean Steam Trap integrates the purge into the valve body itself, through a drain port in direct contact with the ball cavity.

Steam sweeps the cavity in the open position, condensate drains in the purge position, and there is no longer any measurable dead leg between isolation and purge.

Two main series

Mechanical finishes and electropolishing available for both series.

Surface treatments without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free), compliant with current pharma requirements.

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard, forged (Series 8) or cast (Series 9).

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing condensates and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and steam sealing

Standard white V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats, formulated for dimensional stability under repeated thermal cycling.

Alternatives available in FKM or EPR O-rings depending on the chemical compatibility of the condensate.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream, maintained after several thousand sterilisation cycles.

Live-loaded stem packing that continuously compensates for packing settlement under thermal variations and maintains stem sealing without periodic re-tightening.

Full vacuum rated as standard, a critical condition for post-SIP cooling phases.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

On a Clean Steam Trap valve cycled daily, settlement of V-TEF™ seats is the leading cause of end-of-life leakage. Adjust-O-Seal® compensates for this settlement without removal or circuit requalification.

Ball and purge port configuration

Ball machined with milled flats or a dedicated bore connecting the main line to the purge port depending on position.

Three typical positions available: open (main flow free), closed (bidirectional isolation), purge (main line isolated, open to drain port).

The purge port is integrated into the body, with a hygienic clamp connection or extended tube for orbital welding.

Piggable configuration available for pigging circuits.

Three-piece swing-out design

Three-piece swing-out body, allowing visual inspection of the ball and seats, replacement of consumables and cleaning without dismantling the pipework or requalifying orbital welds.

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/4″ to 6″ (DN 8 to DN 150) on the main line, purge port sized according to the expected condensate flow.

Optional True-Bore® design, with a bore diameter equal to the inside diameter of the connected tube or pipe.

Available main line and purge connections: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread, flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on series and seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, well above typical clean steam conditions (121 °C at 2 bar, 135 °C at 3 bar).

Reduced ranges with FKM or EPR seals depending on compatibility.

Proven resistance to several thousand SIP cycles without measurable sealing drift, provided cycling follows the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Actuation

Manual operation by lockable multi-position handle or automation.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface on the stem axis, ensuring precise alignment with the multi-position pneumatic actuator (typically 90° rotation for isolation/purge, or 180° for three positions).

Full range of actuators, limit switch boxes and positioners available.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number, flow direction and purge position.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

View specifications

View the IMI PBM catalogue

Link to IMI PBM

IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Ball valves for clean steam, SIP and repeated thermal cycles

The IMI PBM Clean Steam range is designed for processes subject to aggressive, repeated thermal cycles: SIP sterilisation with clean steam, pharma steam distribution networks, high-temperature WFI loops, cold depressurisation.

The design incorporates the specific constraints of clean steam: differential steel/PTFE expansion, condensation in dead zones, seat degradation from cycling, corrosion accelerated by acidic condensates.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, vaccines, cell therapies and aseptic manufacturing, where sterilisation in place must be repeated daily without loss of sealing performance.

Two main series

Mechanical finishes and electropolishing available for both series.

Surface treatments without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free), compliant with current pharma requirements.

Body and wetted-part materials

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard, forged (Series 8) or cast (Series 9).

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing condensates and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Seats, seals and steam sealing

Standard white V-TEF™ (modified PTFE) seats, formulated for dimensional stability under repeated thermal cycling.

Alternatives available in FKM or EPR O-rings depending on the chemical compatibility of the condensate.

Bidirectional bubble-tight sealing upstream and downstream, maintained after several thousand sterilisation cycles.

Live-loaded stem packing that continuously compensates for packing settlement under thermal variations and maintains stem sealing without periodic re-tightening.

Full vacuum rated as standard, a critical condition for post-SIP cooling phases.

Adjust-O-Seal® technology

Progressive tightening of the seats against the ball by adjusting the body bolts, in-line, without dismantling or process interruption.

On a steam valve cycled daily, settlement of V-TEF™ seats is the leading cause of end-of-life leakage. Adjust-O-Seal® compensates for this settlement without removal or circuit requalification, extending the valve’s service life by several years on daily SIP.

Three-piece swing-out design

Three-piece swing-out body, allowing visual inspection of the ball and seats, replacement of consumables and cleaning without dismantling the pipework or requalifying orbital welds.

A critical configuration for SIP valves subject to planned preventive maintenance.

Clean Steam Trap configuration available with purge ports integrated into the body, to drain condensate and avoid cold spots that compromise sterility.

Process options

Purge holes in the ball for in-line SIP. Milled flats for condensate drainage. Body cavity fillers to eliminate dead volumes where condensate could stagnate and form cold spots.

Vented ball available to prevent cavity overpressure during thermal shocks.

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/4″ to 6″ (DN 8 to DN 150).

Optional True-Bore® design, with a bore diameter equal to the inside diameter of the connected tube or pipe, eliminating steam flow restrictions and premature condensation points.

Available connections: hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp), extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread, flanges to specification.

Compatible with Imperial, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 62.1 bar (900 psig) depending on series and seat material.

Temperature up to 232 °C with V-TEF™ seats, well above typical clean steam conditions (121 °C at 2 bar, 135 °C at 3 bar).

Reduced ranges with FKM or EPR seals depending on compatibility.

Proven resistance to several thousand SIP cycles without measurable sealing drift, provided cycling follows the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Actuation

Manual operation by standard handle or patented lockable handle.

Integrated Direct Mount Actuation interface on the stem axis, ensuring precise alignment with the pneumatic or electric actuator and extending cycle life.

On automated SIP valves, direct alignment eliminates mechanical play that drifts with thermal cycles and extends stem seal life.

Full range of actuators, limit switch boxes and positioners available.

Traceability and packaging

Each valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, serial number.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.

View the IMI PBM catalogue

Link to IMI PBM

IMI PBM Valve Solutions – Poppet check valve for clean fluids and sterile processes

The IMI PBM poppet-type Check Valve range is designed to prevent any fluid backflow in hygienic processes where flow reversal would compromise product quality or process integrity: protection of pumps downstream of loops, isolation of sterile tanks, separation of CIP/product lines, steam return on SIP.

The poppet principle ensures positive, fast closure independent of gravity, allowing horizontal or vertical installation without modifying the valve.

Used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food processing and cosmetics, on product circuits, WFI utilities and SIP returns.

Operating principle

Poppet-shaped closure element returned by a stainless steel spring against an elastomer seat integrated into the body.

On opening, upstream pressure lifts the poppet and clears the passage.

As soon as upstream pressure drops or reverses, the spring returns the poppet to the closed position, with no delay and no dependence on gravity.

Cracking pressure adjusted to the process, typically 0.03 to 0.7 bar (0.5 to 10 psi), with a choice of several spring rates.

Bubble-tight sealing in the closed position, including at low differential pressure.

Body and wetted parts

Low-ferrite 316L stainless steel as standard.

Alternatives available in AL-6XN® (UNS N08367) for chloride-bearing fluids and in Hastelloy® C-22 (UNS N06022) for extremely corrosive media.

Composition and traceability compliant with ASME BPE. 3.1 material certificate supplied for all wetted parts.

Spring in 316 stainless steel or Hastelloy depending on chemical compatibility, isolated from the fluid path by the poppet geometry to limit the risk of retention.

Seats, seals and elastomers

Standard seats and seals in USP Class VI EPDM. Alternatives available in FKM (Viton) and platinum-cured silicone depending on chemical compatibility and temperature.

FDA-compliant materials, free of animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Bidirectional upstream bubble-tight sealing, compliant with the hygienic requirements of ASME BPE standards.

No retention zone behind the poppet in the open position, allowing CIP cleaning without dismantling.

Hygienic design

Continuous fluid path, with no crevices or stagnation zones.

Poppet and guide geometry designed to allow in-line CIP and full drainability in both horizontal and vertical positions.

Surface treatments performed without animal-derived ingredients (ADI-free).

Mechanical finishes and electropolishing available according to application requirements.

Surface finish

Dimensions and connections

Sizes available from 1/2″ to 4″ (DN 15 to DN 100).

Hygienic clamp (Tri-Clamp) connections, extended tube ends for orbital welding, sanitary thread or flanges to specification.

Compatible with ASME BPE, DIN 11864 and SMS dimensional standards.

Significantly shorter axial length than a conventional swing check valve, making integration into skids and compact manifolds easier.

Operating range

Operating pressure up to 10 bar (150 psig) as standard, high-pressure versions available up to 40 bar depending on size and material.

Full vacuum rated as standard.

Temperature up to 150 °C with EPDM seals, 200 °C with FKM, 230 °C with platinum-cured silicone depending on the selected formulation.

Compatible with repeated SIP cycles, subject to selecting the right elastomer.

Mounting orientation

Horizontal or vertical installation accepted without modification, thanks to gravity-independent spring return.

Flow direction laser-engraved on the body with an arrow.

On vertical circuits, the reinforced spring version is specified to prevent the poppet’s own weight from holding it open on large diameters.

Traceability and packaging

Each check valve is supplied with a 3.1 material certificate according to EN 10204 for all wetted parts (CMTR), a USP Class VI declaration of conformity for elastomers and an FDA statement for product-contact materials.

Laser marking on the body: reference, size, material, flow direction, serial number.

Individually packed in a polyethylene sleeve, with capped ends.