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Integrated Valve and Actuator Solutions: A recipe for efficiency
With energy prices still uncomfortably high, food and beverage manufacturers are under increasing pressure to find efficiencies across their operations. From energy use to hygiene compliance, there’s a growing demand for solutions that are smarter, simpler, and more cost-effective – and integrated valve and actuator systems are stepping up as a powerful way to deliver all three.
Energy costs are biting, and there’s no quick fix
In recent years, energy has gone from a minor line in the budget to a major overhead. Before the pandemic, it typically made up around 2% of a food manufacturer’s cost base. Now? It's closer to 15%. That’s a sharp rise – and one that shows no sign of falling back.
At the same time, manufacturers are being squeezed from every angle. Retailers and consumers want cheaper prices, while raw material and labour costs continue to climb. So, the hunt is on for any operational gains that can free up capacity and protect profit margins – without compromising product quality or safety.
One of the most overlooked opportunities lies in the use of compressed air. It’s vital to most automation and processing tasks on the line, but also one of the most energy-intensive – especially when conventional motion control systems are used.
A smarter approach to motion control
Traditional pneumatic setups typically involve a mix of separate actuators, valves, switches, and tubing. Each of these components adds complexity and introduces energy losses, particularly in the form of ‘dead’ air volume – the unused compressed air that sits in the system between cycles.
Integrated valve and actuator solutions, such as IMI Norgren’s IVAC, offer a simple but effective alternative. By combining key components into a single unit, these systems eliminate unnecessary tubing and streamline control at the point of use.
The result is a significant reduction in air consumption – in some cases, by up to 50%, depending on the application.
With less air required to perform the same motion, the energy savings add up fast, making a noticeable impact on the bottom line.
Hygiene compliance built-in
Of course, in food and beverage production, energy efficiency is only part of the story. Any component specified also needs to meet strict hygiene standards, particularly in washdown areas or zones that come into contact with the product.
Integrated systems offer clear advantages here, too. With fewer external parts and minimal crevices, units such as IVAC are easier to clean and maintain. Their IP67 rating ensures they can withstand regular washdowns without performance degradation or ingress.
The all-in-one construction also removes the risk of dirt or food particles becoming trapped in tubing or around fittings, supporting more effective cleaning cycles and helping manufacturers meet regulatory requirements more easily.
Reduced downtime and maintenance
Simplifying the system also pays dividends when it comes to reliability and maintenance. Fewer components mean fewer points of failure – and a clearer path to fault-finding when issues arise.
Integrated actuator and valve solutions are quicker to install, easier to troubleshoot, and simpler to replace. With all the functionality contained in a single unit, maintenance teams can work faster and more efficiently, keeping downtime to a minimum and production on track.
For OEMs and machine builders, the benefits continue: specifying one integrated component instead of several reduces part numbers, speeds up assembly, and makes system design more straightforward.
Proven and practical way to cut costs
Food and beverage manufacturing continues to face increasing pressure – from energy and compliance demands to cost and efficiency expectations. But the answer doesn’t always have to be complex or expensive.
Integrated valve and actuator solutions offer a proven, practical way to reduce compressed air use, streamline maintenance, and maintain the highest hygiene standards, all while cutting operational costs.
Whether you're looking to retrofit existing machinery or optimise the design of new equipment, now is the time to take a closer look at your motion control setup. Integrated solutions, such as IVAC from IMI Norgren, might just be the simplest step you can take toward a more efficient, future-ready plant.
For more information on Fluid Power, Transfer and Control Solutions and to get in touch with one of our ERIKS Specialists, please contact your local ERIKS Service Centre, who will be happy to discuss your options.
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