Using Valves.

Valve use demonstration.

• The front of the valve will be protected from accidental forklift damage by a plyboard cover secured with 2 * stainless screws.
• If the plate is missing on arrival, check the outlet valve for signs of damage including an inspection of the (blue or black) dust cap which should be connected to the valve top and bottom by a small tamper evident plastic tie. 
• Remove tamper evident dust cap from valve by unscrewing and make sure that there is no product behind the dust cap. If product has leaked through the valve it should be reported.
• The valve cannot be opened with the Dust Cap in position, trying to do this will result in damage to the valve or valve handle. 
• The bag should only be opened using the bottom valve as this precludes contaminated air from entering the bag on the principle that as product exits the bag the internal liner collapses. To open the valve the valve should be pushed through 90° upwards.             `
• The integrated valve on these bags is made from polyethylene and will not stand up to the rigours of constantly opening and closing in the manner of a steel valve. Therefore, if the method of utilisation requires this a stainless steel valve must be fitted in line and preferably directly onto the plastic valve or as close as possible. This valve should then be used as the main shut-off and the plastic valve left open.
• Continual use of the plastic valve may lead to failure of the seal and leakage of the product, which if exposed to air will eventually support microbial growth which can then track back into the main container causing spoilage. i.e. fermentation or mould growth. In most cases upon request we can provide a coupling which can connect to the plastic valve and allow a stainless valve to be coupled directly.
• All hose attachments and pipe work used for dispense must be subject to thorough cleaning and disinfection in-line with standard hygienic practices before attachment to the Octobox. 
• In most cases upon request we can provide a coupling which can connect to the plastic valve and allow a stainless valve to be coupled directly
  The picture below shows additional options
• It is vitally important that full consideration is given to Hygienic practices when coupling lines to the Octobox, as contamination at this point will reduce the shelf-life of the product. A contact surface spray sanitizer should be employed on the hose coupling and on the exposed area of the valve prior to final connection.
• Where there is a requirement for a valve, hose or associated pipe work to be fitted you must remember that this requires to be supported independently. The Integrated valve that you are connecting to is attached to the polythene liner and this is not designed to support additional weight.
• When dosing into a pressurised system a non-return valve must be installed between the dosing pump and the high pressure line. We would recommend that this is fitted even when it is a positive displacement dosing pump. Unpasteurised beer or liquor will contaminate the sterile product if it flows back to the Octobox.