Dosing systems for the nicotine pouches industry

A second consecutive order of RVS rotary valves supplied to British American Tobacco's new facility in Trieste further strengthens TOREX's collaboration with system integrator RGS in the pneumatic conveying of food-grade raw materials.

Technical challenges and specification requirements

The handling of ingredients used in the production of nicotine pouch products (under-lip format) required full compliance with stringent food hygiene standards, together with absolute prevention of product contamination, retention, or material build-up within the conveying system. Key specification requirements included:

• Food-grade compliance: all components in direct contact with product certified for food applications
• Surface finish: maximum Ra 0.8 μm on all product-contact surfaces — satin-finished surfaces minimise microporosity and support effective cleaning cycles, including nitrogen-assisted purging, and reduce the risk of hygroscopic powder compaction during continuous operation

Raw materials handled

The rotary valves are used for dosing and flow control of the key components forming the internal blend of Velo-branded nicotine pouches, all processed in compliance with food-grade standards:

• Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC), a plant-based binder and bulking agent
• High-purity nicotine carried on solid pharmaceutical-grade substrates
• Sodium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate for pH regulation and controlled nicotine release
• Xylitol and erythritol, food-grade polyols contributing to flavour profile and mouthfeel
• Powdered flavourings, including highly volatile menthol and fruit-based formulations

Supplied solution

5 × RVS15202H00F0 and 7 × RVS20202H00F0. All units are manufactured in AISI 304 stainless steel and configured with application-specific design features:

• Rotor: satin-finished with rounded pocket edges and controlled machining to Ra 0.8
• Inlet port: satin-finished with controlled surface roughness Ra 0.8
• Sealing system: TOREX proprietary design, FDA compliant and in accordance with EC Regulation 1935/2004
• Bearings: tapered roller bearings certified to EC Regulation 1935/2004
• End cover design: integrated provision for nitrogen purging of rotor pockets, enhancing cleanability between production cycles

Results and future outlook

This second consecutive supply to BAT's global hub in Trieste confirms the reliability and process consistency of TOREX rotary valve technology within the food and nicotine delivery sectors. Close cooperation with RGS has enabled optimisation of the pneumatic conveying layout, resulting in reduced cleaning downtime, improved operational efficiency, and sustained product integrity in line with the stringent quality standards required for the Velo brand.

The partnership remains active, with further developments of the conveying system currently under evaluation for subsequent phases of expansion at the Trieste facility.

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