To prevent food and beverage product contamination, it’s essential for processing to occur in a wash-down environment. However, a harsh wash-down environment can damage electrical equipment and components that aren’t built to withstand the high temperatures and pressures in these settings. Although other types of materials can be used, stainless steel is the best option for environments where corrosive materials are present and where maintenance or “wash-down” procedures use harsh chemicals and create damaging heat.
In addition, food processing plant maintenance departments must constantly battle the effects of corrosion throughout the plant’s equipment and operations. Programs with a focus on integrating corrosion-resistant alloys, such as stainless steel, should be implemented when one is designing facilities, selecting equipment, identifying online corrosion monitoring techniques, or implementing maintenance programs in these environments.
