Using the right components in a decentralised cleaning system

23 Sep
  • Monday 23 September 2024
  • By: BOONS FIS
  • Category: Foaming and disinfection installations

In the food industry, cleaning is not a secondary task; it is a crucial part of the production process. The choice of a decentralized cleaning system often provides flexibility and efficiency, but only if the right components are used. In this blog, we explain why selecting the appropriate components is essential to meet the strict hygiene standards in the sector and how this can help ensure food safety.

01. What is a Decentralized Cleaning System?

In this system, decentralized stations (DSW satellites) are installed in the production area, which may or may not be connected to a pressure boosting unit via a piping system. The stations are fed via suction hoses placed in the jerrycans below.
A decentralized cleaning system is used to clean specific zones or equipment in a production environment. The choice of cleaning components or settings may vary per zone. It is, therefore, a highly flexible cleaning system.

  • Advantages: This system offers flexibility, reduces the risk of cross-contamination, and allows the optimization of cleaning processes for different production lines.
  • Challenges: However, it requires careful selection of components to ensure consistency and effectiveness in the cleaning process.

02. Key Components of a Decentralized Cleaning System

A well-functioning decentralized cleaning system is essential for maintaining the highest hygiene standards in the food industry. Every component of the system plays a crucial role in cleaning production environments. Choosing the right parts is crucial for the efficiency, durability, and safety of the cleaning process.

In this blog, we discuss the key components, such as hose reels, hoses, cleaning guns, cleaning lances, and spray nozzles, and the necessity of precise selection for optimal hygiene results.
 

02.01. Hose Reels: Flexibility and safety in the workplace

A hose reel is one of the most practical components of a decentralized cleaning system. Hose reels ensure that cleaning hoses are stored quickly, safely, and neatly, which not only extends the lifespan of the hoses but also promotes workplace safety. A carelessly stored hose can pose a tripping hazard, or be damaged by pallet trucks, causing unnecessary wear and tear. To avoid this, the cleaning hose can be easily rolled out and retracted by the automatic, self-retracting reel. This allows the operator to efficiently operate the cleaning system without unnecessary time loss from manually rolling up the hose. The right hose reel, often made of stainless steel, must be resistant to the wet and chemical environment of production.

02.02. Cleaning Hoses: Durability and Flexibility

Cleaning hoses form the backbone of the cleaning system. They transport water and cleaning agents to the areas to be cleaned. It is crucial to choose hoses that can withstand the specific conditions of a production environment, such as extreme temperatures and aggressive chemicals. For instance, hoses with textile reinforcements are flexible and lightweight, making them ideal for daily cleaning, while hoses with steel reinforcements are more robust and better suited to intensive use and higher pressures.

In surface cleaning in the food industry, 1/2" cleaning hoses with a linen reinforcement and durable rubber cover, with or without FDA certification, are preferred.

02.03. Cleaning Guns: Precision and Control

Cleaning guns apply water and cleaning agents with the desired pressure and precision. They allow operators to quickly switch between different cleaning methods, such as rinsing or foaming. A good cleaning gun not only offers ease of use but also contributes to a more efficient use of water and cleaning agents, reducing both costs and environmental impact.

Cleaning guns come in various types, such as hand-operated guns or tap-operated systems with ball valves, each with its pros and cons.

02.04. Cleaning Lances: Reach and Effectiveness

Cleaning lances are used to clean hard-to-reach places, such as tight corners or elevated surfaces. They offer extra length and control for operators, making cleaning tasks easier and more effective.

Choosing the right lance, tailored to the specific needs of the production environment, ensures thorough cleaning at all levels, even in difficult spots where hygiene risks may be hidden.

02.05. Spray Nozzles: Precise Application of Cleaning Agents

Nozzles, or spray heads, determine the precision and effectiveness of the cleaning process. There are many different types of nozzles available, usually made of stainless steel, such as low or high-pressure nozzles, foam nozzles, rinse nozzles, and disinfectant nozzles, each designed for a specific cleaning task. The choice of the right nozzle depends on the type of contamination and the desired cleaning method.

The right nozzle ensures that water and cleaning agents are applied with the correct force and coverage. Selecting the right, durable nozzle and using it consistently is essential for a reliable cleaning process.

03. Meeting Strict Hygiene Standards

Using the right components is not just a matter of efficiency; it is also essential for complying with the strict hygiene standards in the food industry, such as HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) and BRC (British Retail Consortium).

  • Regulatory Compliance: Every part of the cleaning system must comply with relevant regulations and certifications. This ensures that the system is not only effective but also aligns with legal food safety requirements.
  • Documentation and Monitoring: Keeping detailed records of the components used and their performance is important. This allows you to demonstrate during audits that your cleaning system meets the required standards.

04. Optimization and Cost Control

While the initial investment in high-quality components for a decentralized cleaning system may be higher, it pays off in the long run in terms of efficiency, durability, and lower maintenance costs.

  • Longer Lifespan: High-quality components generally have a longer lifespan, leading to fewer replacements and lower operational costs.
  • Less Downtime: By investing in reliable components, you can minimize unexpected downtime and production stoppages, directly contributing to higher productivity.

05. The Expertise of BOONS FIS

Selecting the right components for a decentralized cleaning system requires specialized knowledge and experience. At BOONS FIS, we not only offer a wide range of high-quality cleaning solutions but also expert advice to help you build a system that perfectly matches the specific needs of your production environment.

Our experts are ready to guide you in choosing the right components to ensure your cleaning system meets the highest hygiene standards while remaining cost-effective.

The choice of the right components, such as pumps, piping, ball valves, hose reels, and nozzles, is crucial for the effectiveness of a decentralized cleaning system. Each part contributes in its own way to the efficiency, safety, and durability of the cleaning process. By making the right choices, your food company can not only meet strict hygiene standards but also save costs and improve workplace safety.

BOONS FIS, a specialist in hygiene solutions for the food industry, offers high-quality components for decentralized cleaning systems that meet the specific needs of your business. Our expertise helps you select the right products for a watertight hygiene strategy, ensuring your company meets all food safety requirements. "Schedule an appointment with our sales team today for a demo in our 'Experience Room' in Nazareth."