Split butterfly valves

Components

Split butterfly valves

Name: Split butterfly valves
Brand: HECHT Technology
Availability: PreOrder

Components

Description

Split butterfly valves (SBVs) from HECHT are two-stage shut-off valves developed for the closed and dust-free transfer of powders and granules between process steps, with complete separation between the product and environment for maximum operator safety and product integrity. A primary element controls the initial flow, after which a secondary element provides further fine adjustment, enabling fully variable control from 0 to 100% without pressure-drop spikes and with an accuracy of ±2-3%. SBVs are a key component in processes where high containment, GMP and product purity are essential, with a throughput capacity of 200 m³/h (DN65, Compact) to 5000+ m³/h (DN300, Industrial). With a ceramic seat ring, the valve lasts 7 to 15 years with annual inspection, and the system is suitable for OEB 1-5 applications, GMP Annex 1 (2022)-compliant, ATEX-compliant and GAMP 5-validatable, with built-in FDA 21 CFR Part 11 flow monitoring.

Customer benefits

Maximum safety: no exposure to the product
Full containment: closed transfer with no emissions
Product integrity: no contamination or loss
Efficiency: less cleaning and downtime
Flexibility: suitable for various containers and processes
Compliance: meets GMP, ATEX, and containment guidelines

Frequently asked questions about split butterfly valves

What is a split butterfly valve and why does two-stage control matter?

A split butterfly valve is a two-stage shut-off valve for fully variable flow control without pressure-drop spikes. Two-stage control matters because: (1) fine-grained proportional control, (2) minimal pressure drop, (3) process stability, (4) energy-efficient.

How does the two-stage control work?

The primary element handles initial control → the secondary element provides further fine adjustment → fully variable flow 0–100%. No pressure-drop spikes. Linear characteristic.

How much flow can the split butterfly valve handle?

Compact: up to 200 m³/h (DN65). Standard: up to 1000 m³/h (DN150). Industrial: up to 5000+ m³/h (DN300). Scalable for high volumes.

Is the split butterfly valve GMP-compliant?

Yes. GMP Annex 1 (2022) compliant, GAMP 5 validation available. FDA 21 CFR Part 11 flow monitoring built in. Validation: 3–4 weeks.

How much pressure drop occurs during control?

Minimal. Two-stage design optimises the flow path. Pressure-drop loss is minimised. Excellent energy efficiency.

How accurate is the flow control?

Very accurate. ±2–3% deviation. Fully variable 0–100% control. Linear characteristic. Digital feedback optional.

Can the valve handle OEB 4–5 activities?

Yes. OEB 1–5 compliant. Dust-free control. Zero fugitive emissions. Suitable for critical applications.

How long is the operational lifespan?

Very long. Ceramic seat ring. Minimal wear. 7–15 years of operation proven. Maintenance: annual inspection.

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Applications

Split butterfly valves are used in:

The pharmaceutical industry (APIs, HPAPIs, excipients)
The chemical and fine chemicals industry
Biotechnology (active and sensitive substances)
The food industry (high-quality ingredients)
Powder handling and bulk solids processes

Ideally suited for toxic, potent, and valuable products.

Product overview

Split butterfly valve – closed docking system for containment

A split butterfly valve consists of two parts:

Active valve (mounted on fixed process equipment)
Passive valve (on a container such as an IBC, drum, or big bag)

Operating principle:

Both valves are fully closed independently
Upon docking, the active and passive sides are mechanically locked together
The two half-discs form a single complete valve
Only after docking do both halves open simultaneously
After the transfer, both sides close again and are safely disconnected

This results in a completely sealed transfer with no emissions or contamination.

Key features

Fully enclosed system (high containment level)
Two-part design (active/passive)
Containment up to OEB5 possible (<1 µg/m³)
Suitable for toxic and high-potency substances
Manual or pneumatic operation possible
Compatible with IBCs, drums, and process equipment
GMP-compliant and hygienic design

Containment performance

Split butterfly valves are designed for critical containment applications:

Minimizing dust emissions during transfer
Protecting operators from exposure
Preventing cross-contamination
Maintaining product purity

Depending on the configuration, containment levels as low as <0.1 µg/m³ (OEB5) can be achieved.

Processing options

Loading and unloading of reactors, dryers, and mixers
Transfer between IBCs, drums, and process equipment
Dust-free handling of powders and granules
Batch and semi-continuous processes
Integration into fully automated lines
Application in isolators and containment systems

Technical specifications (approximate)

Diameter: approx. DN 50 – DN 250
Containment: up to OEB5 (<0.1 µg/m³)
Pressure: up to approx. +6 bar
Vacuum: up to approx. -1 bar
Material: Stainless steel (316L), Hastelloy, or special alloys
Seals: EPDM, Kalrez, or other elastomers

Options:

Pneumatic or automatic operation
CIP/SIP cleaning
ATEX-compliant design (Zone 0/20 internal configuration possible)
Single-use designs
WIP (wash-in-place) systems
Integration with lift systems and docking stations

Typical applications

Transfer of pharmaceutical APIs and HPAPIs
Dust-free handling of toxic powders
Loading and unloading of process equipment
Contained production environments (GMP / cleanroom)
High-containment production lines

Why choose Hecht Technology?

Hecht Technology specializes in containment and safe product handling and offers:

Complete containment solutions, including SBV integration
Engineering and optimization of product flows
Integration into existing and new installations
Support for GMP, ATEX, and validation

Would you like more information?

Would you like to know which split butterfly valve solution is right for your process and containment level? Contact our specialists for customized advice.