This means that tanks and machines used in production processes are cleaned on site. This is carried out using CIP systems which are either mobile or are directly connected to – and thus fully integrated into – the production processes.

The sole purpose of CIP tanks is cleaning. Depending on the station, they’re used for clean water or used, dirty water.

The cleaning sequence

Firstly, a purging step is carried out. This removes the coarse contaminants. These can be dried residue from dry foodstuffs or residual liquid in the tank. Next, the system cleaned with alkaline agents. The cleaning agent is then flushed out with fresh water. To remove limescale, the system is exposed to acid and subsequently flushed out with water. Lastly, the system is sanitised and, again, flushed out with high-purity water. The CIP tank accommodates the individual agents during the process and, working with the rest of the system, ensures that the process runs smoothly.