A Custom Solution for a Global Icon of Sweetness

16/06/2025 A Custom Solution for a Global Icon of Sweetness
Where reliability, hygiene and creativity converge in a mechanical seal

In a modern European facility dedicated to producing one of the world’s most beloved chocolate-based spreads, every detail of the process must meet the highest standards. Here, excellence isn’t optional, it’s the baseline. But behind the scenes of this sweet perfection lies a series of silent, critical technical challenges: how to reliably seal extremely viscous, sticky, and thermally sensitive products without compromising performance or hygiene?
We’re talking about chocolate, dense and delicate creams, products where the slightest deviation can impact quality, safety, and efficiency.
 

The Challenge

At the heart of the production line, pumps and mixers operate continuously, handling fluids that are a real test for mechanical seals.
Common issues included:

  • Build-up and solid deposits on seal faces
  • Sticking and blocking of rotating parts
  • Accelerated wear and frequent downtime
  • Complicated cleaning cycles and hygiene risks

All this in an unforgiving process environment, where:

  • High shear can cause oil separation
  • Excess heat leads to sugar caramelization
  • Low temperatures trigger crystallization

The Huhnseal Approach

We didn’t start with a product. We started with a conversation.
We listened carefully, worked side-by-side with the engineering team, and studied the production dynamics in detail. Our goal wasn’t just to supply a seal, it was to co-design a tailored solution that fit seamlessly into the real-world needs of the plant.

The Solution: Knife-Edge

From this collaborative process, we developed a mechanical seal specifically designed for aggressive, high-viscosity fluids like chocolate: the Knife Edge.
A solution that combines hygienic design and technical precision:

  • Optimized seal face geometry to prevent product accumulation
  • Spring loading adjusted to fluid properties
  • Our patented Lip-O-Rings® or semi-open grooves with dynamic O-rings

A sharp profile that drives product away from the contact zone, simplifying clean-in-place (CIP)
Every detail was engineered to minimize friction between process demands and mechanical limitations.

The Result

Once installed, the custom seal delivered measurable results:

  • Smooth and continuous production, no more unexpected shutdowns
  • Faster and more effective cleaning, aligned with top hygienic standards
  • Significant reduction in maintenance
  • A seal that truly connects innovation with real-world performance

Not all seals are the same

Some seals tell a story, of listening, adapting, and true collaboration.
This is one of those stories.
And at Huhnseal, we’re proud to be part of it.