Suncombe Chemical Distribution Schemes are a robust range of heavy duty schemes for internal and external storage and distribution of liquid chemicals. Primarily used in the pharmaceutical, biotech, food, beverage, healthcare and other critical sectors, they encompass the high quality of design, manufacture and documentation required in these sectors.
Individually developed for clients specific requirements, Suncombe Chemical Distribution Schemes provide a robust, reliable, repeatable method of storage and distribution of liquids. They incorporate internal and/or external enclosures for containing liquid IBCs and drums, pipework, pumps, valves, instrumentation and an in-built control system.
Developed and manufactured in the United Kingdom
Safe storage for chemicals in internal or external locations
Self bunded systems with combined or split bunds
Local day tanks, pumping stations and manual filling stations
External versions weatherproofed, heated and ventilated
Safety showers and eyebaths
Available for many liquid solutions and chemical compounds
High quality stainless, duplex, PE and compatible material schemes
316 stainless steel pipework as standard
Duplex steel or plastic pipework for chemical compatibility
Safety Interlocks to SIL2
Automatic or manual changeover of twin IBCs or drums
Pressure relief and safety devices
Risk assessment, method statements, operating instructions and full documentation
2D drawings and 3D models supplied
Factory Acceptance Testing Included
Chemical distribution schemes in pharmaceutical manufacturing turn chemical handling from a safety risk into a controlled, repeatable, and compliant utility. They protect people, equipment and product, while supporting scalable, modern life science operations.
Chemical Distribution Schemes are engineered systems that store, handle and deliver process chemicals in a controlled way. They cover both bulk and local storage, plus the distribution pipework, pumps, valves and controls that move chemicals from storage to the point of use. Suncombe Chemical Distribution Schemes serve liquid chemicals such as acids, alkalis, detergents, disinfectants and process additives across pharmaceutical and biotech facilities.
Chemical Storage and Distribution Systems are not just tanks and pipes. They are complete, hygienic and traceable systems designed to protect operators, utilities and product quality. They sit alongside critical process systems such as CIP, SIP, bioreactors and buffer preparation skids.
Pharmaceutical manufacturing relies on large volumes of aggressive, concentrated chemicals for cleaning, disinfection, and process support. Manual handling of drums, IBCs and carboys exposes operators to splashes, fumes and ergonomic strain, especially as volumes rise or strengths increase. In many facilities, traditional practices such as drum lifting, pouring and temporary hose connections are no longer acceptable from a health and safety standpoint.
Regulators require strict control over components, utilities, and cleaning procedures in accordance with GMP and similar standards. Authorities like WHO and PIC/S highlight the importance of proper storage, segregation, sealed handling, and avoiding cross‑contamination. Using closed equipment and engineered transfer routes helps minimize contamination risks and enhances data‑driven quality management.
Organizations often transition to engineered chemical storage and distribution systems to minimize operator exposure and prevent spills. They aim for improved ergonomics, reduced lifting loads, and fewer temporary hose connections in cleanroom and utility spaces. These distribution schemes achieve these goals through closed-transfer systems, bunded storage, leak detection, and monitored transfer pathways.
As facilities expand, the number of use-points and campaigns increases. Without a structured scheme, each new CIP set, vessel or wash station adds more local drums, hoses and manual mixing steps. A centralised or zoned chemical distribution system replaces this patchwork with a planned, documented and maintainable backbone.
At the core is safe storage. Bulk tanks or local day tanks hold chemicals in 316L stainless steel or suitable thermoplastics, with minimal dead legs and full drainability to support hygienic design. Bunded areas, overfill protection and level monitoring reduce the risk of loss of containment.
From storage, pumps and valves move chemicals through dedicated pipework to each point of use. Closed-transfer lances draw product from IBCs, drums or road tankers, removing the need to open containers in process areas. Ventilation provisions and, where needed, local extraction reduce vapour exposure around fill and discharge points.
Chemical Storage and Distribution Systems commonly feed CIP systems, wash stations and facility cleaning processes. Cleaning in Place relies on accurate concentration of detergents, acids and disinfectants to meet validated cleaning performance and residue limits. Automated dosing and controlled distribution ensure each CIP recipe receives chemicals at the correct concentration and volume.
Distribution schemes also support buffer and media preparation areas. High-purity chemicals and concentrated stock solutions can be delivered directly to preparation vessels, reducing manual weighing, lifting and open tipping. This strengthens repeatability, reduces error and supports consistent bioprocess yields.
Closed-transfer designs minimise direct contact with hazardous substances and vapours. Operators handle secure couplings and automated controls, rather than open drums and free hoses. This reduces splash risk, chemical burns and inhalation exposure.
Engineered schemes also improve ergonomics. Pumps and fixed pipework replace repeated drum handling, tipping and moving of heavy containers in confined process areas. These changes often support EHS targets and can reduce recordable incidents linked to chemical tasks.
Controlled distribution avoids over‑dosing and under‑dosing of chemicals into CIP or process systems. Correct concentrations protect stainless steel, elastomers and process equipment from unnecessary corrosion or degradation. Repeatable dosing prevents residue build‑up, and supports validated cleaning performance, which is key to preventing cross‑contamination.
Leak detection on tanks, bunds and distribution lines provides early warning of failures. Integration with facility alarm systems and interlocks allows fast response and shutdown where required. This protects drains, effluent systems and the wider environment from uncontrolled releases.
Modern pharmaceutical facilities rely on data to demonstrate control. Chemical distribution schemes can be designed with recipe‑based control systems, audit trails and batch-linked dosing records. This creates traceable, dependable processes that integrate with site MES or SCADA systems.
Documentation is also a key part of compliance. Suncombe systems are supplied with comprehensive installation, operation and maintenance documentation to support qualification and validation in cGMP environments. This aligns with expectations for robust supplier documentation and lifecycle management under GMP and GDP guidance.
Every site needs a tailored Chemical Distribution Scheme based on chemical type, hazard profile and usage pattern. Key decisions include bulk versus local storage, internal versus external siting and whether to centralise or zone distribution headers. Risk assessments and HAZOPs help define bunded volumes, materials of construction and segregation requirements.
Materials and hygienic design must fit the application. 316L stainless steel, polished internal surfaces and documented weld traceability support hygienic and biopharmaceutical use. For highly aggressive or specific chemistries, chemically resistant thermoplastics and FDA‑compliant components are selected.
User‑configurable, recipe‑based control makes chemical distribution predictable and repeatable. Operators select validated recipes rather than improvising with manual valves and stopwatches. This reduces variability and supports right‑first‑time cleaning and preparation cycles.
Instrumentation provides live feedback on levels, flows, pressures and valve states across the scheme. Deviations trigger alarms and, where needed, automated shutdown or rerouting. Systems built to GAMP5 principles support integration into site qualification frameworks and computerised system validation.
Suncombe has supplied critical processing systems to the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors since 1961. Its Process Chemical Storage & Distribution Systems are designed as robust, reliable and hygienic solutions for critical sectors. They provide secure and controlled storage, handling and delivery of chemicals to support a wide range of manufacturing processes.
Suncombe Chemical Distribution Schemes are available for internal and external storage, and for both bulk and local configurations. Systems are pre‑assembled, fully tested and supplied with complete documentation to minimise on-site risk and validation time. By combining containment‑focused design with reliable automation, they help life science organisations replace manual handling with engineered protection and maintain stable, scalable operations.
Automation Philosophy: Manual, Semi-automatic, automatic
Number of IBCs/Drums in Scheme: 1 – 10
Number of IBCs/Drums in Enclosure: 1 – 4
Operating Voltage: 230VAC or 400VAC (24VDC control) – international voltage options
Automation: Suite Levels 1000 to 4000 – option for DCS/remote control
Reporting: Optional printed 21CFR11 electronic records and batch reports.