Sanitary Tri-Clamp RTD Sensor (Food & Pharma Grade)
In the Food, Beverage, and Pharmaceutical industries, cleanability is just as important as accuracy. The Hongtai Sanitary RTD Sensor is engineered to meet stringent FDA and GMP guidelines. Unlike threaded sensors that trap bacteria in the threads, this probe features a crevice-free Tri-clamp temperature probe connection for rapid assembly and disassembly.
Fabricated from high-grade Stainless Steel 316L, the wetted surface is electropolished to a mirror finish (Ra < 0.4µm – 0.8µm). This ultra-smooth surface prevents product adhesion and biofilm formation, making it fully compatible with CIP (Clean-In-Place) and SIP (Steam-In-Place) sterilization cycles in breweries, dairies, and biotech facilities.
Key Technical Features & Benefits
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Hygienic Design: The Tri-Clamp (Ferrule) connection eliminates threads and dead legs where bacteria can hide. The seamless transition from probe to flange ensures 100% cleanability.
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FDA Compliant Material: All wetted parts are made of corrosion-resistant SS316L, suitable for acidic juices, dairy enzymes, and pharmaceutical solvents.
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Fast Response: Available with a tapered tip (reduced tip) design to improve thermal response time (T50 < 3s) for flash pasteurization monitoring.
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Waterproof Head: Standard IP67 or IP69K stainless steel connection heads withstand high-pressure washdowns.
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Easy Maintenance: Quick-release clamp allows operators to remove the Food grade temperature sensor for inspection or calibration in seconds without tools.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
| Product Type | Sanitary RTD sensor | Tri-Clamp Mounting |
| Sensor Element | Pt100 (Class A / Class AA) | High Accuracy Essential |
| Process Connection | Tri-Clamp (1.5″, 2.0″, 2.5″) | ISO 2852 / DIN 32676 |
| Sheath Material | Stainless Steel 316L | Food Grade |
| Surface Finish | Ra ≤ 0.4µm – 0.8µm | Electropolished / Mirror |
| Temp Range | -50°C to +200°C | Steam SIP Capable |
| Pressure Rating | 10 Bar (Standard) | Depends on Clamp |
| Connection Head | Stainless Steel / Polypropylene | FDA Approved Materials |
| Wire Configuration | 3-Wire / 4-Wire | – |
Application Scenarios
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Brewing & Distilling: Monitoring mash tun, fermenter, and kettle temperatures. The Tri-clamp temperature probe fits standard brewery ferrules.
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Dairy Processing: Pasteurization (HTST) holding tubes where precise temperature logging is legally required.
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Biopharmaceuticals: Bioreactors and WFI (Water for Injection) systems requiring sterile connections.
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CIP Systems: Monitoring the return temperature of cleaning solutions (Caustic/Acid) to ensure sanitation effectiveness.
What is a “CIP RTD Probe”?
CIP (Clean-in-Place) is an automated method of cleaning pipes and tanks without disassembly. A CIP RTD probe must withstand:
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Rapid thermal shock (Cold water -> 80°C Caustic -> Steam).
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Turbulent flow.
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Chemical attack.
Hongtai sanitary sensors are robustly built to survive these daily cleaning cycles for years.
FAQ
Q: What clamp size do I need?
A: The most common size is 1.5″ Tri-Clamp (Ferrule OD approx 50.5mm). However, we also manufacture 1.0″, 2.0″ (OD 64mm), and DIN standard sizes. Please measure the outer diameter of your tank ferrule flange to confirm.
Q: Is the head waterproof?
A: Yes. We typically supply these with a white Polypropylene (FDA) or Stainless Steel head rated IP67, which can withstand high-pressure hose-downs during facility cleaning.
Q: Can I calibrate this sensor?
A: Yes. The quick-clamp design allows you to easily remove the sensor and place it in a dry block calibrator to verify its Class A accuracy, a standard requirement for HACCP compliance.
(Need tank heating? Check our Bain Marie Heat Mats. Read FDA guidelines on Sanitary Equipment Design.)
