Valves for Glycerine / Glycerol (C₃H₈O₃) Service
Glycerine (glycerol) is a colourless, viscous, water-miscible alcohol with diverse industrial applications including pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and as a by-product of biodiesel production (transesterification). With a viscosity of ~1,000 cP at 25°C (reducing to ~100 cP at 60°C), glycerine requires careful valve selection for its high-viscosity characteristics. It is non-corrosive to most metals and highly water-miscible. Pharmaceutical-grade glycerine requires USP/BP quality and food-grade valve materials.
Pressure Range
1–10 barg
Temperature
25–80°C (process); up to 120°C (sterilisation/SIP)
Industries
Pharmaceuticals, Food & cosmetics, Biodiesel plants (glycerine by-product)
Key Properties — Glycerine / Glycerol (C₃H₈O₃)
- High viscosity: ~1,000 cP at 25°C; ~100 cP at 60°C — reduce temperature for pumping
- Non-corrosive to carbon steel, SS, bronze, and most polymers
- Fully water-miscible — CIP with hot water effective
- High boiling point (290°C) — thermally stable at all normal process temperatures
- Pharmaceutical grade: USP Class VI materials, no metal contamination
Material Compatibility — Glycerine / Glycerol (C₃H₈O₃)
Ratings are indicative. Actual compatibility depends on concentration, temperature, velocity, and presence of contaminants. Always consult corrosion tables or a materials engineer.
| Material | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SS 316L | Excellent | Preferred for pharmaceutical and food-grade glycerine. |
| Carbon Steel | Good | Acceptable for industrial glycerine (non-pharma). |
| Bronze | Good | Traditional material for glycerine utility valves. |
| PTFE seals | Excellent | Best for pharmaceutical glycerine — no extract, USP VI compliant. |
| EPDM seals | Good | Acceptable for food/cosmetic grade glycerine. |
Recommended Valves
Ball Valve (SS 316L, full bore)
Standard isolation for pharmaceutical and food-grade glycerine — full bore for CIP pigging
Diaphragm Valve (SS 316L, PTFE diaphragm)
Pharmaceutical glycerine — ASME BPE compliant, zero dead legs, CIP/SIP compatible
Globe Valve (SS 316L)
Accurate flow control of glycerine in blending and dilution systems
Butterfly Valve (SS 316L, EPDM seat)
Large-bore glycerine storage and distribution in biodiesel plants
Valves to Avoid
Reduced-bore valves for high-viscosity glycerine — excessive pressure drop
Special Considerations
Applicable Standards
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