Precision control for CIP processes

27 June, 2018

1. From first principles; keeping the time devoted to the CIP process to a minimum reduces downtime and maintains productivity levels. In larger installations, it may be possible to isolate certain production lines for cleaning, while the others continue in operation.

2. The CIP process can involve a range of chemicals that are used to clean and disinfect the equipment. The concentration of these chemicals is very important in achieving an effective cleaning cycle without wasting expensive materials. To achieve the correct balance, it is important to specify the most appropriate control valves for each application, particularly when looking at precision dosing systems for detergent.

3. This process needs to take into account all of the influencing factors, such as temperature, pressure and chemical properties. CIP processes use either caustic or acidic detergent regimes, so the chemical resistance properties of the control valves within the manufacturing process are a very important aspect of the design.

4. The actual cleaning process itself may be initiated and stopped manually as and when it is required. This can lead to both ineffective and costly processes that could be improved with the use of automation. Installing a series of control valves and condition sensors that are linked to the main process controller, can significantly reduce the cost of CIP and improve its effectiveness.

5. By looking at the process in more detail it is possible to identify areas where improvements can be made. Examining the temperature and the conductivity of the cleaning fluid will determine if too much energy or too much chemical is being used. Any reductions in energy consumption or raw materials will have a beneficial effect on operational costs, so precise temperature measurement and a fast feed-back loop are essential.

6. Further savings can be derived from reducing water consumption in the rinse cycles. Rather than using a time-based process, which often uses more water than necessary, conductivity sensors can be used to establish when a clear water stream is established and close the control valve.

7. For the actual sterilisation process, sensors for pH, temperature and chemical concentration will be able to record data that may be required to meet statutory regulations, so some form of supervisory controller whether that be localised or networked is essential.

8. Smart valves and dedicated process controllers are a good option here as they provide the flexibility to store and display information locally or pass it on to wider factory automation layers and MES systems. At the same time, this data ensures the process is accurately controlled and maintained for the most efficient result.