A Proven Approach to Pressure Relief in Pharmaceutical Systems

Pharmaceutical manufacturing requires pressure relief solutions that deliver consistent performance across a wide range of operating conditions. From low-pressure venting to high-pressure containment, systems must maintain safety and reliability while minimizing maintenance, protecting equipment, and supporting process continuity.

The RA Series was developed to address these challenges through reverse acting rupture disk technology that maximizes operating efficiency and durability. By utilizing a pre-formed dome that reverses under pressure, the RA Series minimizes fatigue, supports high operating ratios and vacuum operation, and extends service life compared to conventional rupture disk technologies.

The result is a flexible rupture disk platform capable of supporting multiple pressure ranges and process conditions using a single holder system.

The advanced RAH holder allows installation of multiple ZOOK Reverse Acting disk designs with many additional benefits. These include RAH disk pre-installation in the workshop, removal of the disk and holder assembly for inspection and a guarantee of good alignment in the installation optimizing flow on burst.

at a glance

Sizes 1" to 4" (25 mm to 100 mm) Yes
Operating Ratio* Up to 95% Yes
Vacuum Yes Yes
Compliance Yes Yes

Why Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Choose the RA Series

Integrated System Simplicity

  • One holder system across all RA disk types
  • Pre-torque assembly ensures consistent installation
  • Reduces operator error and installation damage
  • Simplifies inventory and specification

High Performance Across Pressure Ranges

  • Covers low to high pressure applications with one system
  • Up to 95% operating ratio
  • Multiple disk designs optimized for pressure bands
  • Excellent leak tightness
  • Consistent, repeatable performance

Reliability Built In

  • Reverse acting design resists fatigue and pressure cycling
  • Long service life reduces maintenance frequency
  • Non-fragmenting opening protects system integrity
  • Suitable for dynamic process conditions

Designed for Process Flexibility

  • Supports liquid, gas, and two-phase applications
  • Wide range of materials for process compatibility
  • Performs under vacuum and back pressure conditions
  • Gas and liquid service ready
  • Configurable for corrosion resistance

Trusted for Critical Pressure Relief Applications

The RA Series provides dependable flange-based overpressure protection across a wide range of pharmaceutical process systems where reliability and flexibility are required.

  • Autoclaves
  • Bioreactors and Fermenters
  • CIP and SIP Feed Piping
  • Clean Steam Piping
  • Large diameter Utility and Transfer Lines
  • Process and Transport Vessels
  • Safety Valve Isolation
  • Utility Gas Piping (N₂, CO₂, CDA)
  • WFI Vessels and Distribution Piping
  • Storage Tanks

RA Series Models for Full Pressure Coverage

The RA Series includes multiple disk designs, each optimized for specific pressure ranges, all integrated within a single holder platform.

RA4: Low-pressure applications

The RA4 is designed for ultra-low-pressure applications where precision and reliability are required at minimal burst pressures. It is suitable for vacuum conditions and supports liquid, gas, and two-phase systems.

RA6: Low to medium pressure range

The RA6 provides reliable performance across general process conditions. Its design resists product build-up and maintains consistent operation in applications with moderate pressure, vacuum, and back pressure.

RA8: Mid-pressure capability

The RA8 is engineered for higher pressure containment while maintaining durability and performance. It supports more demanding process environments where increased pressure capability is required.

RAX: High-pressure gas applications

The RAX is designed specifically for high-pressure gas systems. Its cross-scored design enables controlled opening in applications requiring high-pressure protection.

What Sets the RA Series Apart

Pre-Torque Design = Installation Confidence

The pre-torque assembly delivers consistent installation torque, protects the rupture disk during installation, maintains seal integrity during inspection, and provides a reliable, bubble-tight metal-to-metal seal.

Protected Installation Design

The disk is enclosed within the holder during installation, reducing the risk of handling damage and ensuring consistent performance.

High Operating Efficiency

The reverse acting design enables operation close to the disk’s burst pressure without compromising reliability. This improves system efficiency while maintaining safety margins.

Extended Cycle Life

Compression loading of the disk reduces material fatigue and supports repeated pressure cycling over time.

Flexible Pressure Coverage

With multiple disk types across a single platform, the RA Series simplifies specification while covering a wide range of process requirements.

Non-Fragmenting Design

The RA Series is designed to open without fragmentation, protecting downstream equipment and maintaining system integrity.

Customize the RA Series for Your Process

Bioreactor Overpressure Protection Checklist

A field checklist for reviewing bioreactor overpressure risk and confirming burst detection and indication coverage before a validation event.

Download

ZANITARY® Brochure

Explore the complete ZANITARY® product overview, technology story, and application guide (PDF).

Download

ZANITARY® Datasheet

Download the full technical datasheet with specifications, pressure ratings, and sizing information (PDF).

Download

Talk to an Engineer

Connect with a ZOOK Pharma application engineer to discuss your specific pharmaceutical pressure relief requirements.

Connect Now (opens in a new tab)

Find the Right RA Series Configuration for Your Application

Connect with a ZOOK Pharma application engineer to determine the optimal rupture disk and holder configuration for your process conditions.

Request a Quote