SS 316L Purified Water Distribution System

Purified Water Distribution System

A Purified Water (PW) Distribution System is a sophisticated network designed to deliver high-purity water to critical points of use in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, cosmetic, and food & beverage industries. It maintains consistent quality, controls temperature and flow, and minimizes contamination risks.

Key Components and Features

Storage Tank

• Constructed from SS316L stainless steel with electropolished surfaces

• Capable of handling pressure and temperature fluctuations

• Ensures clean, contamination-free water storage

Recirculation System

• Uses sanitary-grade pumps to maintain continuous circulation

• Prevents stagnation and microbial growth through turbulent flow

Distribution Piping

• Made from sanitary stainless steel tubing (ASTM A270 or ASME BPE)

• Features orbital welding and tri-clamp connections for cleanability

• Fully drainable design

Pumps

• Typically centrifugal pumps with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

• Maintain precise flow rates and system pressure

Instrumentation

• Includes sensors for flow, pressure, temperature, conductivity, and Total Organic Carbon (TOC)

• Ensures water quality remains within defined parameters

Sanitization Methods

• May include ozonation, heat, or chemical methods

• Helps eliminate microbial contamination and maintain system hygiene

Dead Leg Minimization

• System is designed to reduce or eliminate areas of water stagnation

• Helps prevent biofilm formation and microbial buildup

Temperature Control

• PW systems generally operate between 15–25°C

• WFI (Water for Injection) loops typically run above 80°C for microbial control

Final Filtration

• Utilizes 0.2 or 0.1 micron cartridge filters

• Acts as a final safeguard to remove particulates and microorganisms

Special Considerations for Pharmaceutical Applications

Regulatory Compliance

• Systems are designed to meet standards such as USP, EP, and JP

WFI Systems

• Specialized setups, often involving distillation, are required for Water for Injection used in parenteral (injectable) products

Automation and Control

• Often includes PLC- or SCADA-based automation

• Supports continuous monitoring, alarms, and data logging for validated processes