What is Cleanfit CPA871?
Cleanfit CPA871 is a retractable online cleaning pH measurement assembly launched by Endress+Hauser, designed for processes requiring frequent sterilization and cleaning. Through manual or pneumatic drive, it allows the sensor to safely switch between the process position and the cleaning position, enabling calibration and maintenance without interrupting the process.
This assembly is widely used in biopharmaceutical, food and beverage and other industries with extremely high hygiene requirements, and supports CIP (Clean-in-Place) and SIP (Sterilization-in-Place) processes.
Core Components and Functions
1. Drive Unit
- Manual drive: Sensor retraction and extension are achieved by rotating a handle, suitable for low-frequency maintenance occasions.
- Pneumatic drive: Controlled by compressed air, can be connected to a PLC for automatic cleaning, suitable for high-frequency operations.
2. Process Connection and Sealing
- Uses flange or clamp connection, adapting to different pipeline standards.
- Built-in double sealing system ensures isolation between the process medium and the outside, preventing leakage and contamination.
3. Sensor and Cleaning Chamber
- Compatible with 12 mm standard pH electrodes, such as the Memosens series.
- The cleaning chamber can be supplied with cleaning solution, steam, or calibration buffer to achieve in-situ cleaning and calibration.
Step-by-Step Analysis of Working Principle
The core of Cleanfit CPA871 lies in the coordination of retraction movement and sealing switching. The following are typical working steps:
- Process measurement: The sensor is located in the process pipeline, measuring the pH value in real time.
- Switch to cleaning position: The drive unit pulls the sensor back into the cleaning chamber, and the process seal closes.
- Cleaning and calibration: Cleaning solution or buffer is supplied to the cleaning chamber to clean or calibrate the sensor.
- Return to process position: After cleaning is completed, the sensor is pushed back into the process pipeline to resume measurement.
The entire process can be completed without interrupting the process, significantly improving measurement reliability and maintenance efficiency.
Key Parameters and Model Selection Comparison
| Parameter | Manual Type | Pneumatic Type |
|---|---|---|
| Drive method | Handle rotation | Compressed air (4-8 bar) |
| Degree of automation | Low, requires manual operation | High, can be connected to PLC |
| Applicable scenarios | Low-frequency maintenance, laboratory | High-frequency cleaning, pharmaceutical production |
| Sterilization support | Supports SIP | Supports SIP/CIP |
Typical Applications and Advantages
- Biopharmaceutical: Online pH monitoring of fermentation tanks and liquid preparation systems, meeting GMP requirements.
- Food and beverage: pH control in CIP cleaning pipelines, ensuring product consistency.
- Advantages: Reduced downtime, extended sensor life, and lower risk of cross-contamination.
Maintenance and Precautions
- Regularly check the wear of sealing rings; replacement is recommended every 6-12 months.
- For the pneumatic type, ensure compressed air is dry and clean to prevent moisture from entering the drive chamber.
- The temperature and concentration of the cleaning solution should meet the requirements of the sensor and assembly materials.
Proper use and maintenance of Cleanfit CPA871 can ensure long-term stable pH measurement and provide reliable data for process control.