Normally Closed Position
With no sufficient inlet pressure, the spring or magnetic closing force keeps the internal plug firmly against the valve seat. The flow path remains closed and reverse migration of product is prevented.
Closed at RestNon-Return Valves, also known as Check Valves or One-Way Valves, are automatic hygienic valves designed to allow product flow in one direction while preventing reverse flow inside sanitary process systems. Depending on the valve design, closing force may be generated by a spring-loaded mechanism or a magnetic operating principle.
In hygienic process lines, a Non-Return Valve opens automatically when upstream pressure exceeds the valve's opening force, commonly referred to as Cracking Pressure. When forward pressure decreases or reverse pressure develops, the internal plug or disc returns to the seat and closes the flow path. This automatic response helps protect pumps, heat exchangers, pasteurizers, filling systems, dosing equipment and sensitive instruments from reverse flow, contamination and hydraulic disturbances. Hygienic Check Valves are widely used throughout dairy, beverage, food, pharmaceutical and sanitary processing installations.
A Non-Return Valve responds automatically to the pressure difference across the valve. It opens for forward flow and closes when pressure falls or when reverse pressure develops, protecting the process line without an external actuator.
With no sufficient inlet pressure, the spring or magnetic closing force keeps the internal plug firmly against the valve seat. The flow path remains closed and reverse migration of product is prevented.
Closed at RestWhen upstream pressure becomes greater than the closing force, the plug lifts from the seat. This minimum opening pressure is commonly called the Cracking Pressure.
Pressure-Activated OpeningIf forward pressure decreases or flow reverses, the closing mechanism returns the plug to the seat. Reverse pressure then reinforces the seal and helps block unwanted backflow.
Automatic Backflow ProtectionIn a spring-operated design, a mechanical spring applies a defined closing force to the valve plug. Forward product pressure must overcome this force before the valve can open.
In a magnetic-operated design, magnetic force controls the closing movement of the internal valve element. This arrangement is used in specialized hygienic applications requiring a compact and clean design.
Although construction varies by model, hygienic Non-Return Valves normally contain a compact set of internal components that create the opening, closing and sealing functions.
| Technical Term | Meaning | Why It Matters | Selection Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cracking Pressure | Minimum upstream differential pressure required to begin opening the valve. | Determines when forward flow can start through the valve. | Must be compatible with available process pressure and pump duty. |
| Back Pressure | Pressure acting from the downstream side toward the inlet side. | Helps keep the valve closed during a reverse-flow condition. | Maximum reverse pressure must remain within the valve rating. |
| Pressure Differential | Difference between upstream and downstream process pressure. | Controls whether the valve opens, remains open or closes. | Evaluate normal operation, start-up and transient conditions. |
| Flow Direction | Intended direction in which product is permitted to pass. | Incorrect installation orientation can prevent proper operation. | Confirm the valve flow arrow before installation. |
| Reverse Leakage | Unwanted leakage through the valve while reverse pressure is applied. | Can affect product separation, hygiene and equipment protection. | Seat condition, seal material and pressure must be evaluated. |
| Self-Acting Valve | Valve that operates automatically from process pressure without a pneumatic or electric actuator. | Simplifies installation and reduces external control requirements. | Correct pressure conditions are essential for reliable operation. |
| Product-Wetted Parts | Components and surfaces that come into direct contact with product. | Material, surface condition and cleanability affect hygienic safety. | Confirm stainless-steel grade, seal material and approval needs. |
| Installation Orientation | Physical position of the valve in vertical or horizontal piping. | Gravity and internal construction may influence opening behaviour. | Match the valve model to the actual piping arrangement. |
Cracking Pressure describes the differential pressure at which the valve first begins to open. The valve's allowable operating pressure is a separate mechanical rating. Both values must be considered when selecting a hygienic Check Valve for a process line.
The LKC-2 is a compact spring-operated Check Valve designed to permit one-way flow and prevent reverse movement of product in hygienic process piping. Its serviceable construction combines a clamp-assembled body, hygienic seal ring and welded process connections.
The LKC-2 uses a mechanical spring to hold the internal valve element against its seat. When inlet pressure exceeds the spring force, the valve opens and allows forward flow. When pressure decreases or a reverse-pressure condition occurs, the spring returns the closing element to the seat and blocks backflow.
LKC-2 combines a compact hygienic body with a serviceable internal assembly and automatic spring-assisted closing action.
The complete opening and closing cycle is driven by the pressure difference across the valve and the opposing force of the internal spring.
Without sufficient inlet pressure, the spring keeps the plug seated and the valve remains closed.
Inlet differential pressure increases until it overcomes the spring force and begins lifting the plug.
Product passes through the valve in the permitted flow direction while sufficient forward pressure is maintained.
When forward pressure decreases, the spring pushes the internal plug back toward the seat.
Downstream pressure acts in the closing direction and reinforces the seated position of the plug.
The closed plug and seat interface prevent unwanted reverse product movement through the process line.
Provide the complete OEM Part Number whenever available, together with valve size, pipe standard, stainless-steel execution, seal material, operating pressure, temperature, product details and clear photographs of the installed valve or its nameplate.
The EDF is a magnetic-operated hygienic Check Valve developed for applications requiring automatic one-way flow, compact construction and high sanitary performance. Its closing action is produced by magnetic force rather than a conventional mechanical spring.
The EDF uses magnetic attraction to return the internal closing element to its seat. During forward flow, upstream differential pressure moves the valve element away from the seat. When forward pressure decreases or reverse pressure appears, magnetic force pulls the internal element back into the closed position and prevents backflow.
The EDF opening and closing cycle is controlled by the balance between process differential pressure and magnetic closing force.
With no sufficient inlet pressure, magnetic attraction holds the internal valve element against the seat.
Upstream differential pressure rises and begins to overcome the magnetic closing force.
The internal element moves away from the seat and product flows in the permitted direction.
When forward pressure falls or reverses, magnetic force returns the internal element to the seat.
The EDF magnetic-operated Non-Return Valve combines automatic backflow protection with a compact hygienic design. Proper selection depends on understanding its internal construction, process conditions, installation orientation and exact OEM execution.
The exact geometry may vary by nominal size and connection execution, but the EDF family generally relies on a compact set of hygienic and magnetic components to create the opening, closing and sealing functions.
The EDF is intended for sanitary process service where cleanability, product safety and controlled one-way flow are essential.
The valve must be evaluated as part of the complete cleaning circuit, including flow velocity, cleaning temperature, chemistry and pressure.
Magnetic closing offers a different operating principle from a conventional spring-loaded Check Valve and may be preferred in selected high-hygiene process applications.
| Review Item | What Must Be Verified | Risk if Incorrect | Recommended Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Direction | Confirm the permitted direction of product movement through the installed valve. | Incorrect orientation may prevent opening or eliminate backflow protection. | Installation drawing, valve marking or clear site photograph. |
| Nominal Size | Verify valve size and actual pipe dimensions. | Incorrect fit, welding mismatch or reduced process capacity. | Pipe schedule, dimension drawing or OEM Part Number. |
| Pressure Differential | Confirm available upstream pressure and downstream back pressure. | Valve may fail to open fully or may close unexpectedly. | Process data sheet and pump operating information. |
| Product Properties | Review viscosity, solids, stickiness and product temperature. | Increased pressure loss, incomplete closure or deposit formation. | Product specification and operating description. |
| Cleaning Conditions | Review CIP chemical, temperature, pressure and flow velocity. | Seal damage, incomplete cleaning or reduced service life. | CIP recipe and chemical compatibility data. |
| Material Execution | Confirm stainless-steel grade and all product-contact materials. | Corrosion, incompatibility or non-compliance with plant requirements. | Material certificate, OEM data sheet or equipment record. |
| OEM Reference | Match complete part number, model, size and connection execution. | Wrong replacement valve or incompatible internal parts. | Nameplate photo, original manual, invoice or spare-parts list. |
The opening behaviour of an EDF valve depends on the relationship between process differential pressure and the magnetic closing force of the exact valve execution. This value should not be assumed from another nominal size or another Non-Return Valve family.
Product viscosity, particles, crystallization, stickiness and cleaning behaviour can affect movement of the internal element and sealing performance. The complete process duty should therefore be reviewed before selecting EDF for a new installation.
The EDF magnetic-operated hygienic non-return valve is selected where automatic one-way flow protection and sanitary construction are required.
Milk, cream, yogurt, cultured products, CIP return lines and hygienic utility systems.
Juices, soft drinks, mineral water, brewing and filling process lines.
Purified liquids and hygienic process loops requiring contamination prevention.
Lotions, liquid soaps, emulsions and other sanitary transfer duties.
Sauces, edible liquids and general hygienic process systems.
Process water and other clean utility circuits where reverse flow must be prevented.
| Parameter | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | Ensures the exact magnetic execution and internal geometry. |
| Nominal Size | Must match piping dimensions and process capacity. |
| Connection Standard | ISO, DIN or other hygienic connection execution. |
| Operating Pressure | Determines opening behaviour and process suitability. |
| Temperature | Affects elastomer compatibility and service life. |
| Cleaning System | Verify compatibility with CIP/SIP procedures where applicable. |
| Product Characteristics | Viscosity, solids and crystallization behaviour influence valve performance. |
Although both valves perform the same primary function—preventing reverse flow—they use different closing mechanisms and are selected for different engineering priorities.
| Parameter | LKC-2 | EDF |
|---|---|---|
| Closing principle | Spring-operated | Magnetic-operated |
| Closing force | Mechanical spring | Permanent magnetic attraction |
| Opening method | Process differential pressure | Process differential pressure |
| External actuator | Not required | Not required |
| Typical hygienic use | General food & beverage processing | Selected high-hygiene process duties |
| Installation | Depends on OEM orientation | Depends on OEM orientation |
| OEM execution | LKC-2 family | EDF family |
| Engineering Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| General hygienic process lines | LKC‑2 is commonly selected. |
| Magnetic closing requirement | EDF should be evaluated. |
| Simple maintenance philosophy | LKC‑2 may be preferred where spring-operated designs are standardized. |
| Compact magnetic solution | EDF may provide advantages where specified by the OEM. |
| Replacement of existing valve | Always replace with the exact OEM execution unless engineering approval is obtained. |
| Question | Preferred Direction |
|---|---|
| Need to replace an installed LKC‑2? | Use equivalent LKC‑2 OEM specification. |
| Need to replace an installed EDF? | Use equivalent EDF OEM specification. |
| Designing a new hygienic line? | Select after reviewing pressure, product, CIP strategy and manufacturer recommendations. |
| Unknown installed valve? | Collect photos, nameplate, drawings and part numbers before ordering. |
A hygienic Non-Return Valve must be selected from verified pressure, temperature, material, connection and process data. The values below distinguish published LKC-2 specifications from EDF parameters that must be confirmed against the exact OEM execution.
Reference values for the hygienic spring-operated LKC-2 valve family.
The approximate 0.06 bar value describes the pressure differential required to begin opening the vertically installed LKC-2 under the published configuration. Actual pressure loss during flow also depends on size, flow rate, fluid properties, valve position and pipe geometry.
Product-contact material and seal selection must correspond to the process duty.
| Component or Property | Published Standard / Option | Engineering Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Product-Wetted Steel | 1.4301 (AISI 304) or 1.4404 (AISI 316L) | 316L is commonly evaluated for more demanding corrosion and hygienic duties. |
| Standard Product-Wetted Seals | EPDM | Confirm compatibility with product, temperature and cleaning chemistry. |
| Optional Seal Materials | NBR or FPM | Selection should be based on chemical, fat, oil and thermal exposure. |
| Internal Surface Finish | Bright polished, Ra < 0.8 µm | Surface condition must be protected during handling, welding and maintenance. |
| External Surface Finish | Bright, machined Ra 1.6 | Alternative finish requirements should be stated during quotation. |
| Body Assembly | Two body parts assembled by clamp ring | Clamp and seal condition should be checked during maintenance. |
| Closing Mechanism | Spring-loaded valve plug | Spring, guide and plug condition affect repeatable opening and closing. |
| Connections | Weld and clamp ends for ISO and DIN tubing | Confirm exact tube outside diameter—not only the nominal DN designation. |
Seal materials should never be chosen only from temperature limits. Product composition and CIP chemistry are equally important.
EDF is identified as a magnetic-operated Non-Return Valve for high-hygiene applications. Numerical performance data should be taken only from the matching EDF OEM data sheet.
How technical values should be handled during selection and quotation.
| Parameter | LKC-2 | EDF | Required Procurement Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Principle | Spring-operated | Magnetic-operated | Do not interchange mechanisms without engineering approval. |
| Maximum Product Pressure | Published standard value: 10 bar | Confirm exact OEM value | State normal and maximum system pressure in RFQ. |
| Temperature Range | -10°C to 140°C for published EPDM execution | Confirm exact OEM value | State product, CIP and SIP temperatures separately. |
| Opening Characteristic | Approx. 0.06 bar opening differential when vertically installed | Magnetic force is execution-specific | Request pressure-drop or opening data for the selected size. |
| Steel Grade | 304 or 316L published | Confirm exact OEM execution | Request material certificates where required. |
| Seal Material | EPDM standard; NBR/FPM options published | Confirm exact OEM execution | Provide product and cleaning-chemical information. |
| Connection Standard | ISO or DIN; weld/clamp options published | Confirm exact OEM execution | Provide dimensions or a drawing to prevent connection mismatch. |
Both products are Non-Return Valves, but their closing mechanisms and model-specific performance differ. LKC-2 pressure, temperature, opening-differential or material values must not be presented as EDF specifications unless the EDF OEM documentation explicitly confirms them.
A Check Valve should be sized for stable operation—not simply selected by matching the pipe nominal size.
Oversizing can result in low internal velocity, incomplete movement, unstable operation and product accumulation. Undersizing can create excessive pressure loss, high velocity and insufficient process capacity. Final sizing should therefore use manufacturer flow data.
A complete RFQ reduces the risk of receiving an incompatible valve or service kit.
Tetra Pak / Alfa Laval reference list for LKC-2 spring-operated and EDF magnetic-operated hygienic non-return valves. The tables below reproduce only the model, size, material, connection and OEM part-number information shown in the supplied manufacturer screenshots.
EPDM seals · 304 or 316L stainless steel
| Valve family | Connection | Material | Denomination | Size | A | H | OEM Part No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-25.0-304 EPDM | 25.0 mm | 62.5 | 82 | 6-9612 22 0001 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-38.0-304 EPDM | 38.0 mm | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0002 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-51.0-304 EPDM | 51.0 mm | 87.5 | 109 | 6-9612 22 0003 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-63.5-304 EPDM | 63.5 mm | 95 | 137 | 6-9612 22 0004 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-76.1-304 EPDM | 76.1 mm | 115 | 148 | 6-9612 22 0005 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-101.6-304 EPDM | 101.6 mm | 155 | 164 | 6-9612 22 0006 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-25.0-316L EPDM | 25.0 mm | 62.5 | 82 | 6-9612 22 0007 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-38.0-316L EPDM | 38.0 mm | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0008 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-51.0-316L EPDM | 51.0 mm | 87.5 | 109 | 6-9612 22 0009 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-63.5-316L EPDM | 63.5 mm | 95 | 137 | 6-9612 22 0010 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-76.1-316L EPDM | 76.1 mm | 115 | 148 | 6-9612 22 0011 |
| LKC-2 | SMS welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-101.6-316L EPDM | 101.6 mm | 155 | 164 | 6-9612 22 0012 |
EPDM seals · 304 or 316L stainless steel
| Valve family | Connection | Material | Denomination | Nominal size | A | H | OEM Part No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-25-304 EPDM | DN25 | 62.5 | 82 | 6-9612 22 0040 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-32-304 EPDM | DN32 | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0041 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-40-304 EPDM | DN40 | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0042 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-50-304 EPDM | DN50 | 87.5 | 109 | 6-9612 22 0043 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-65-304 EPDM | DN65 | 95 | 137 | 6-9612 22 0044 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-80-304 EPDM | DN80 | 115 | 148 | 6-9612 22 0045 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 304 | LKC-2-W-100-304 EPDM | DN100 | 155 | 164 | 6-9612 22 0046 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-25-316L EPDM | DN25 | 62.5 | 82 | 6-9612 22 0047 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-32-316L EPDM | DN32 | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0048 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-40-316L EPDM | DN40 | 75 | 95.5 | 6-9612 22 0049 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-50-316L EPDM | DN50 | 87.5 | 109 | 6-9612 22 0050 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-65-316L EPDM | DN65 | 95 | 137 | 6-9612 22 0051 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-80-316L EPDM | DN80 | 115 | 148 | 6-9612 22 0052 |
| LKC-2 | DIN welding ends | 316L | LKC-2-W-100-316L EPDM | DN100 | 155 | 164 | 6-9612 22 0053 |
EPDM seals · 316L stainless steel
| Valve family | Connection | Material | Manufacturer description | Size | OEM Part No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 25 EPDM | 25 mm | 70000186158 |
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 38 EPDM | 38 mm | 70000186121 |
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 51 EPDM | 51 mm | 70000186156 |
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 63.5 EPDM | 63.5 mm | 70000186171 |
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 76.1 EPDM | 76.1 mm | 70000186120 |
| EDF | SMS welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W 101.6 EPDM | 101.6 mm | 70000186169 |
EPDM seals · 316L stainless steel
| Valve family | Connection | Material | Manufacturer description | Nominal size | OEM Part No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN10 EPDM | DN10 | 70000185933 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN15 EPDM | DN15 | 70000185934 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN25 EPDM | DN25 | 70000186182 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN40 EPDM | DN40 | 70000186175 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN50 EPDM | DN50 | 70000186150 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN65 EPDM | DN65 | 70000186176 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN80 EPDM | DN80 | 70000186151 |
| EDF | DIN welding ends | 316L | Check valve, EDF W DN100 EPDM | DN100 | 70000186128 |
Answers to the most common engineering, maintenance and purchasing questions about hygienic Non-Return (Check) Valves.
LGN Group supplies hygienic Non-Return (Check) Valves, OEM spare parts, seal kits and engineered flow-control solutions for dairy, beverage, food, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and cosmetic production facilities. Whether you are replacing an existing valve or designing a new processing line, our team can help identify the appropriate solution based on your operating conditions and verified OEM specifications.
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