Rittal debuts Hygienic Design enclosures for F&B manufacturing

Sep. 6, 2017 – Rittal says it has modified the design of its enclosures to help promote hygiene in the food and beverage industry.

According to Rittal, the attachment to the enclosure wall using threaded bolts and nuts has been designed so that the screw fastening is not visible from the outside. As well, the enclosure is made from stainless steel with a brushed grain size of 400, producing a surface roughness average – Ra of less than 0.8 mm. Rittal says the smooth surface finish is easy to clean and disinfect, and there are no hard-to-clean gaps where contamination could collect.

Meanwhile, the silicone seal between the enclosure and the case prevents the transfer of colourants, flavourings and unwanted odours, says Rittal, adding that the seal eliminates gaps between the air/water heat exchanger and the enclosure which would be difficult to clean. The seals are available as spare parts, and can be replaced in the event of mechanical damage. The seals are dyed blue in accordance with FDA Guideline 21 CFR 177.2600, making them distinguishable from contaminants such as food residues. The flat seals on the water connection fittings are also dyed blue, and geometrically designed to sit flush against the shape of the fitting. A metal end stop prevents compression of the seal, so that edges cannot protrude and allow contaminants or micro-organisms to accumulate, it adds. With protection categories up to IP 66/69K and NEMA 4X, Rittal’s Hygienic Design enclosures, climate control and accessories promise to meet the demanding requirements of pressure washing and steam cleaning.