Washing in Place (WIP)

Washing-in-Place (WIP) refers to the cleaning of equipment and systems whilst they are still installed. Cleaning is carried out without the need to dismantle machines or components. Water or simple cleaning agents are circulated through the process chamber. The primary aim of WIP is to remove easily soluble or washable product residues. Typical applications include rinsing out powders, dust or water-soluble residues between two production steps. Complete hygienic cleaning is not the objective here.

amixon® uses wash jets that can move freely within the chamber. Their movement sequence can be freely programmed.

WIP differs significantly from Cleaning in Place (CIP). Whilst WIP is essentially a rinsing or washing procedure, CIP is a validated cleaning process. CIP uses defined cleaning media, temperatures and times, and often involves chemical cleaners or disinfectants. It is used where hygienic or microbiological requirements apply.

WIP is used for rapid product changeovers, to reduce dust, or to prepare for subsequent processes. The effort involved and the consumption of cleaning agents are sometimes lower than with CIP. Good equipment design facilitates effective washing in place. A dead-space-free design, good wetting, and the ability to be completely emptied are crucial for making optimal use of the cleaning fluids.