Alfa Laval’s PlusClean nozzle can be installed flush with the tank wall or bottom, targeting hard-to-reach areas with a pressured fan of cleaning media during CIP.
This method of cleaning avoids ‘shadow areas’ created by agitators and coils that are able to house contaminants, Alfa Laval claimed. Besides a guarantee of total coverage during the sterilisation process, PlusClean boasts an 80% reduction in water consumption versus industry standard tank cleaning technique.
Hygiene post COVID-19
Ian Forrester, business unit manager for Separation and Food Systems at Alfa Laval, said: “The effects of the pandemic have re-iterated the importance of effective hygiene, particularly for those working in the manufacture of food and drink. For this reason, many business owners are beginning to re-evaluate current cleaning methods, with a view to integrating more comprehensive sterilisation techniques going forwards.
“While this is certainly a positive development, it is critical that thoroughness does not come at the sake of productivity and margin, as undertaking a comprehensive clean can often prove a time-consuming and expensive activity. In response to this challenge, we have developed our PlusClean nozzle.”
A 2020 survey of UK manufacturers conducted by Harris Interactive found that 79% of respondents felt more aware of hygiene practices following the pandemic.
Inadequate processes
Only 31% of those surveyed believed that hygiene practices in this setting are currently adequate. Alfa Laval speculated this may be due to a necessity for productivity amid peaking demand taking precedence over the thoroughness of sterilisation processes. However, Alfa Laval believe that with the uptake of new technology, the two do not have to be mutually exclusive.
Forrester concluded: “Food and beverage manufacturers have long been tasked with improving operational efficiency while maintaining a healthy margin. However, amid the rise of new COVID-19 variants, the importance of adhering to tightening hygiene standards is greater than ever.
“We believe that through integrating comprehensive, accessible solutions such as PlusClean, we can help operators achieve an industry that is both greener and more hygienic.”
