New screw and seal system for hygiene-sensitive applications

Designed for food processing, the pharmaceutical sector and other hygiene-critical environments, the system addresses industry-wide challenges relating to contamination risks, bacterial growth, and equipment cleanability.

In a time when manufacturers face increasing scrutiny over hygienic standards and operational safety, the system provides a complete, ready-to-install fastening solution that prevents residue buildup, corrosion and germ formation. Combining specially developed sealing technology with stainless-steel hygienic components, it supports efficient cleaning and long-term process reliability.

At the core of the system are the EHEDG-compliant Hygienic Usit seal and shim washers. Each washer consists of a stainless-steel metal ring with a firmly bonded EPDM or Fluoroprene gasket, creating a dead-space-free seal that maintains consistent performance even after repeated tightening and loosening.

Critically, the sealing surfaces can be cleaned without disassembling screw connections - an innovation that directly improves hygiene management, reduces downtime, and supports compliance with stringent industry regulations. The washers are also ideally suited for demanding applications such as high-temperature steam sterilisation, intensive washdowns, and processes involving fatty products.

Almir Jakupovic, Sales Director at norelem said: "As hygiene standards continue to tighten across food and pharmaceutical manufacturing, our customers need solutions they can trust. The Hygienic Usit system delivers reliable sealing, easy cleaning and full EHEDG compliance - helping businesses reduce contamination risks while improving operational efficiency."

Beyond the seal and shim washers, norelem now offers an extensive range of stainless-steel components that meet hygienic design standards and are fully compatible with the system. These include hexagon screws and cap nuts (also available as complete sets), ergonomic T-handles, indexing plungers with hygienic taper seats, mushroom knobs, wing screws, wing nuts, and clamping levers. The components feature smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces and engineered geometries that minimise dirt accumulation and enable safe, intuitive handling. Additional tooling, such as plier wrenches with protective jaws, further supports professional installation while preventing damage to screw heads.

With the addition of the Hygienic Usit system, norelem reinforces its position as a solutions-driven partner for hygiene-critical sectors. The components are available immediately and can be specified individually or as part of a complete system configuration.