Tips to Improve Tank Cleaning Process

Thoroughly cleaning the tank is a tedious and resource-consuming process. With the help of technology, this task can be automated and easily handled. The traditional fixed spray balls are not very effective at sanitizing the tank as per the desired standards. On the contrary, rotating spray balls are designed to provide a more significant impact.

In this blog, we underscore the factors that save the cleaning cycle time while consuming less water and cleaning utilities. Besides these factors, the kind of nozzle used also influences the operation. JETSPRAY®, a global leader and manufacturer of spray devices, invites you to read this article and learn more.

1. Critical Factors to Consider when choosing the right nozzle

The crucial factors that must be considered when investing in the right kind of nozzle are the type of residue in the tank, the size of the tank, and the internal parts, like agitators, mixers, and baffles, that may act as an obstacle to the spray or even physically collide with the nozzle. Also, one must consider if you wish to get a clean-in-place system.

2. Relation between the droplet size and the impact

A cleaning nozzle can effectively clean the tank in the shortest period when the spray emitted by the nozzle is able to produce impact force against the residue stuck on the inner surface of the tank.

As per the formula: Impact = Force/Area (the droplet size is the mass, and impact is the force), when the droplet size is large, the impact force generated is larger.

Another factor that influences the impact is the dwell time.

The Rotational speed of the device dictates the time duration for which the force resides in a particular area. The “sheer stress” is yet another force acting upon the tank’s surfaces. The areas which do not receive direct impact force from the spray emitted by the nozzle are cleaned when the cleaning solution cascades down the side walls of the tank and the internal components. However, this sheer stress is not as effective as the direct impact force as it requires more time to clean the vessel and get rid of the residues thoroughly.

3. JETSPRAY’s Recommendation to clean difficult areas inside the tank, such as agitators and baffles

A tank cleaning nozzle follows the “line of sight” principle, meaning the spray is targeted towards a specific direction. In the presence of any internal component inside the tank, it becomes an obstacle for the spray, and the targeted areas are missed, thereby resulting in improper cleaning of the tank.

Since most of the tanks have agitators or baffles, these tank cleaning nozzles must be augmented with special devices that can be mounted in special ways. When the nozzle is positioned well inside the tank, the impact of the spray can clean the undersides of the agitator and mixer blades. The spray can also be directed to the baffle surfaces as well. Another way to clean them is to switch them on during the cleaning operation to allow more surfaces to be targeted.

You can also partially fill the tank bottom while the agitator blades are in motion during the cleaning operation to get additional access to the near bottom of the vessel. Next, the tank must be drained, and then another cleaning cycle must be started for a thorough cleanse.

4. Pressure loss and its effect on tank cleaning

At JETSPRAY®, we handpick the most suitable nozzle for every cleaning operation, depending on the available pressure and the flow rate of your pump. In case the nozzle is not properly cleaning the tank, we ask for the pressure reading observed near the inlet of the nozzle, where the rating for the nozzle is determined. The pump rating is for the pump and does not account for the size of the pipe, the number of fittings, or the valves in the line, which account for the pressure loss.

Some customers use the same pump for other processes or use a diaphragm-type pump with an oscillating pressure. Due to these factors, the nozzle cannot properly develop the required pressure and flow. With loss in pressure and flow, the nozzle spray may not be able to reach its full coverage radius or impact force, resulting in less effective cleaning.

5. Rotating nozzles are cost-effective

The Rotating nozzles produce a cleaning effect with less than half the flow volume in comparison to the static spray ball nozzles. These nozzles save cleaning solution and water, reducing the effluent waste to be disposed of.

When using a rotating nozzle, the cleaning is more uniform and repeatable and is completed in a shorter span, reducing downtime & delays. This translates into a greater volume of the product produced, increasing the potential profit.

Our Products for Optimal Tank Cleaning

To ensure spotless cleaning operation every time, here’s what we have for you:

1. Storm Series 6012: It is powered by cutting-edge turbine-drive technology to generate powerful thrust and create optimal sweep patterns at higher inlet pressures. Its optimized slot design improves dwell time on equipment walls for efficiently dislodging contaminants and preventing buildup. These nozzles are Ideal for cleaning, coating, cooling, drying, lubricating, and sanitizing.

1. Plus Series 6011: Its advanced slide bearings deliver strong thrust and effective sweep patterns even at low inlet pressures. Precision slots maximize dwell time on surfaces, ensuring the removal of stubborn residues. These nozzles are well-suited for applications in food processing and pharmaceutical industries.

Conclusion

When it comes to cleaning a tank, there is no simple solution. Taking into account all the intricate factors that must be addressed, even the experts are challenged to choose the right nozzle. At Jetspray, we study your requirements and suggest the right solutions to meet your cleaning requirements.

We are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions for cleaning systems, sampling systems, industrial spraying systems, and Atomizers. Our high-quality products are designed to meet global standards and enhance operational efficiency in process industries.

If you have any further queries, please contact us today. We look forward to providing you with the best solution for your specific applications!