A leading pharmaceutical manufacturer recently partnered with Induchem to carry out ventless breather valve testing as part of their preventative maintenance and emissions reduction programme. The results highlighted the significant environmental and operational impact that properly maintained breather valves can deliver.

The challenge

During routine pre-service testing, one pressure-side breather valve was found to have a leakage rate equivalent to: 2,670.57 m³ of vapour loss per year or approximately 12 tonnes of CO2 a year.

Uncontrolled fugitive emissions at this level can contribute to:

• Increased VOC emissions
• Product loss
• Environmental compliance concerns
• Reduced process efficiency
• Greater sustainability reporting pressures
• For quality and compliance managers, these hidden losses can present both operational and reputational risks.

The solution

Using Induchem’s ventless breather valve testing service, the valve was inspected, serviced, and retested without releasing emissions to atmosphere during the testing process.

Following service, the leakage rate was reduced to: 47.51 m³ per year

The result

• Over 98% reduction in leakage
• Significant reduction in fugitive emissions
• Improved environmental performance
• Enhanced operational efficiency
• Supports sustainability and ESG objectives

Why it matters

Even a single poorly performing breather valve can lead to substantial annual vapour losses. Regular testing and maintenance help pharmaceutical and process manufacturing facilities:

• Reduce environmental impact
• Improve compliance confidence
• Protect product integrity
• Demonstrate proactive asset management
• Support corporate sustainability targets

Induchem ventless testing

Induchem’s ventless testing approach allows facilities to assess valve performance safely and efficiently while minimising atmospheric release during testing activities.

For quality managers and environmental teams, this provides reliable data to support both compliance and continuous improvement initiatives.