Falling Film Chillers

A falling film chiller is a device used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, where rapid cooling and hygiene are critical. Falling film chillers follow strict regulatory standards to guarantee no freeze-up occurs with fluids cooled to 0.5°C. Chillers are constructed from high-grade, corrosion-resistant materials, including stainless steel, and are built to support cleaning processes like Clean-in-place (CIP) systems. They provide a safe, hygienic processing environment by preventing contamination and making sure any surfaces that come into contact with the fluid are simple to clean and maintain.

A clean-in-place (CIP) system is the most effective method for cleaning a falling film chiller. By passing a cleaning solution through the chiller without disassembling it, CIP cleaning helps get rid of mineral deposits, biofilms, and other residues that build up during processing. Warm water pre-rinsing, an alkaline wash to get rid of organic debris, an acid wash to get rid of mineral buildup, and a final rinse with clean water are the usual stages.

Sanitization using hot water or steam may be necessary for extremely sensitive applications to guarantee microorganisms are eradicated. Frequent CIP cycles extend equipment life and minimize contamination hazards by maintaining the chiller's functionality and cleanliness.

Regular cleaning cycles, inspections, and monitoring are necessary to maintain falling film chillers and make sure they function correctly and adhere to hygienic standards. Pre-rinse, alkaline, and acid cycles are used in clean-in-place (CIP) systems to eliminate organic waste and mineral accumulation. Components should be inspected for wear or corrosion after every CIP cycle because they may eventually need replacement.

Regular performance inspections, such as monitoring pressure drops and temperature differentials, aid in locating obstructions or fouling that may lower efficacy. Additional sterilization using hot water or steam may be necessary for hygienic applications to get rid of any remaining bacteria. Preventive maintenance, including scheduled part replacements and recalibration, extends the chiller's lifespan and ensures health and safety regulations are followed.

Falling film chiller cleaning products are carefully chosen to provide thorough cleaning without damaging the machinery or running the risk of contamination. Agents include:

• Alkaline Detergents:These are used to eliminate organic materials that accumulate in food and drink applications, such as proteins, fats, and oils.
• Acidic Detergents:Mineral deposits, such as calcium and magnesium scale, that build up in the chiller over time are removed with phosphoric or nitric acid.
• Sanitizers:A last rinse with a sanitizing solution or steam after alkaline and acid washes guarantees the elimination of any remaining bacteria, creating a sterile atmosphere necessary for sanitary activities.

Due to the widespread usage of the clean-in-place (CIP) approach, these solutions can circulate through the chiller without disassembly. Proper rinsing between each cleaning step prevents cross-reactions between chemicals.

Falling film chillers are available in various configurations:

1. 3 x 5 Model Compact falling film chillers with up to 8 plates, suitable for medium loads in food and pharma. They manage high-pressure applications and can comply with 3-A standards.
2. 4 x 8 Model:High-capacity chillers with up to 32 plates, providing a large surface area for heat transfer. They are perfect for the food, beverage, and industrial sectors since they’re scalable and used for low-pressure applications.
3. Tankless Model:Designed to integrate over existing tanks, these do not include built-in reservoirs. Because of their flexibility and ease of installation, this design is appropriate for custom systems.
4. Packaged Model:Complete systems with refrigeration units, ideal for plug-and-play setups. They’re used in applications requiring integrated cooling.