stainless co2 headers, install CIP loop?

[TonyT]

Installing new 1/2" stainless tubing for main co2 distribution headers in a new facility. Thinking about putting in shutoff valves and drops to allow for flushing the entire stainless side of the system with hot liquor or otherwise to sanitize.

Thoughts for doing this:
-stainless tubing and fittings coming from manufacturer may have dust, debris, etc inside that needs to be cleaned out after initial install
-ability to flush with HLT water or other to sanitize system periodically or if future micro troubles point to CO2 system
-easy to add these connections now during construction

Thoughts against:
-Any residual moisture left in system after flushing could damage point-of-use regulator diaphragms
-Difficult to measure if system is completely dried out after flushing.
-Each point of use drop will also require a liquid bypass, much like on compressed air systems for collecting/venting condensation. More expense and install parts needed.

Anybody have any thoughts or tips on this one?

[Starcat]

10-4

Installing new 1/2" stainless tubing for main co2 distribution headers in a new facility. Thinking about putting in shutoff valves and drops to allow for flushing the entire stainless side of the system with hot liquor or otherwise to sanitize.

Thoughts for doing this:
-stainless tubing and fittings coming from manufacturer may have dust, debris, etc inside that needs to be cleaned out after initial install
-ability to flush with HLT water or other to sanitize system periodically or if future micro troubles point to CO2 system
-easy to add these connections now during construction

Thoughts against:
-Any residual moisture left in system after flushing could damage point-of-use regulator diaphragms
-Difficult to measure if system is completely dried out after flushing.
-Each point of use drop will also require a liquid bypass, much like on compressed air systems for collecting/venting condensation. More expense and install parts needed.

Anybody have any thoughts or tips on this one?

This is a good idea for several reasons. The first is if your regulator system is not perfect with check valves where you need them, you can get beer backed up into the entire system headed towards your supply, and happens typically when you run out of gas and its not caught immediately. This is a real world scenario that more than one person has experienced. Another thing you need to consider is a PRV on the plant side. This has been shown to be a necessity under some failure scenarios of the infeed regulators. A little moisture in the lines is not going to cause problems. You can purge the header before connecting if you are concerned.