Automatic wet cleaning

On the left-hand side, you can see a WIP system:

• The fresh water reservoir is located inside
• sterile high-pressure pump
• Dosing unit for detergent additives
• Pneumatically operated valves

In automatic wet cleaning, the internal surfaces of equipment are cleaned using liquids without the need to dismantle the apparatus. Typically, water, alkalis, acids and, where necessary, disinfectant solutions circulate through the system in a closed loop. The process takes place in defined stages: pre-rinse, alkaline cleaning, intermediate rinse, acid cleaning and final rinse. 

Temperatures, times, flow rates and chemical concentrations are automatically controlled and recorded. In hygiene-sensitive areas, the term ‘CIP systems’ (Cleaning in Place) is often used. These systems rely on appropriate equipment design with internal surfaces that have minimal dead space and can be fully wetted. 

In plants that manufacture or process powdered materials, there is an additional important step in the process. This involves ensuring that the plant is completely dry.