FDA-compliant double loop couplings from Wachendorff Automation for applications in the food industry
The perfect complement to the WDGA/ WDGI 58V stainless steel rotary encoder
In food and drinks production, machine builders face a particular challenge: the systems must not only work precisely and reliably, but also withstand extreme cleaning processes and comply with strict hygiene requirements. It is precisely for these applications that Wachendorff Automation is now expanding its portfolio to include FDA-compliant double loop couplings, which are ideally suited to the WDGA/ WDGI 58V stainless steel encoder, which is also suitable in food applications.
Requirements for washdown use
The washdown area corresponds to the splash zone as defined in DIN EN 1672-2 and includes all surfaces that come into contact with food or are located directly in the process environment. These zones must be designed in such a way that they can be cleaned regularly, free of residue and often with high pressure.
For machines and components, this means:
- Use of stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials that enable easy, thorough cleaning.
- Smooth, bevelled surfaces that prevent liquids from standing and do not allow for niches or crevices where dirt or germs can accumulate.
- High IP protection ratings, typically IP65 to IP69K, to ensure safe operation of machines even during intensive high-pressure and steam jet cleaning.
These technical requirements apply not only to large plant components, but also consistently to coupling and drive connection elements – precisely those interfaces that often work hidden away between the motor, gearbox or rotary encoder.
The new double loop coupling: material, durability and FDA compliance
The newly added double loop couplings are made of an FDA-compliant plastic that has been specially developed for hygiene-critical applications. Thanks to their material selection, they are perfectly suited for washdown environments, as they offer exceptional resistance to:
- Petrol and oil
- Benzene, toluene, aromatic and non-aromatic hydrocarbons
- Alcohols and glycols
- A wide range of solvents and industrial chemicals
In everyday operation, for example in environments with oily lubricants or vapours from process chemicals, the coupling remains permanently dimensionally stable and functionally reliable.
Perfect teamwork: coupling + WDGA/ WDGI 58V stainless steel rotary encoder
The addition of FDA double loop couplings to the portfolio now creates an optimally coordinated measurement and connection system that is completely food-safe, resistant to cleaning and complies with all hygiene regulations.
For machine builders, this means less complexity, greater safety and perfectly coordinated components for the most demanding production environments.
Click here for our smaller DSKF29 coupling, click here for the larger DSK48 coupling and click here for all other couplings.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Steffen Negeli
Head of Product Management
E-Mail: sne@wachendorff.de
About Wachendorff Automation GmbH & Co. KG
Wachendorff Automation (Geisenheim, Germany) stands for the development and manufacture of innovative encoders, motor feedback and complete measuring systems for use in a wide variety of series applications in mechanical and plant engineering, renewable energies and mobile machines. The focus is on an extensive standard program with numerous options as well as the efficient development of customer-specific solutions.
The optimum combination of electronics, optics and mechanics make Wachendorff encoders robust, reliable and innovative on the market. High protection classes, wide temperature ranges and the very robust electronics enable use also in very demanding applications. Unique worldwide: our 5-year warranty! Wachendorff has sales offices in the USA and China as well as a worldwide network of competent distributors.
More details: www.wachendorff-automation.com
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
by: Maren Schütz
Section: Press Releases
