In fluid handling industries, tank cleaning is essential to smooth operation and a standards-compliant end product. A clean tank helps to maintain hygiene and avoid contamination. This not only ensures the safety of consumables but is also an economic imperative: poor tank hygiene can lead to wasted batches and product recalls. It can also affect the value of the product. For example, in brewing, the build-up of calcium oxalate, commonly known as beerstone, can dramatically reduce shelf life. Regular cleaning also prolongs the life and efficiency of operating equipment. Pumps, rotors, and other mechanical devices function better in a clean state and require less maintenance or frequent replacement.
What are the principles of effective tank cleaning, and what are your options?
Cleaning Principles
Cleaning typically involves the introduction of chemical agents. The composition of these and the amount utilised will depend on several factors, such as the soiling level, residual substance and required hygiene standards. There are also different chemicals to act as detergents for removing soils and disinfectants for the elimination of bacterial residues. The action and effect of chemicals are affected by the duration of their application, as well as temperature. The other major factor in cleaning is mechanical operation. For tanks, this is usually achieved by high pressure nozzles which direct jets of fluid within the vessel to distribute cleaning chemicals and water. This action both dislodges dirt and ensures consistent penetration of disinfecting agents throughout the tank.
There are several types of cleaning nozzle, and the choice will depend on the products involved. Nozzles are rated according to their cleaning efficiency, from class one, which is suitable for liquids and light soiling, through to class five, for heavy soiling requiring intense cleaning. The correct choice of nozzle is important, not least to ensure effective cleaning and a hygienic process line, but also for cost savings. Using a rotational nozzle, for example, can reduce detergent use by around a third and in some cases the cleaning cycle duration can be almost halved.
Industrial Trading Solutions offer a range of nozzles, suitable for most tank sizes and applications.
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The most basic nozzle is the static sprayball, appropriate for class one applications like rinsing.
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For more intense cleaning, ITS offers a selection of rotary spray heads. These are ideal for medium soiling and offer good coverage with high impact jets.
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For heavy soiling, ITS offers rotary jet heads, which function under the tightest controlled programmes with 3D indexed impact cleaning for excellent penetration.
All of our nozzles are suitable for high temperature environments.
Food safe nozzles from ITS
Our range of nozzles are ideally suited for food and drink applications, ensuring hygiene and efficiency. They are also well adapted for pharmaceuticals and even marine operation. To find out more, please get in touch to discuss your requirements or read more in our TANK CLEANING GUIDE.
