The Solution Recirculation Tank & Pump is a critical sub-assembly of a Multi-Stage Washing and Sanitizing Tunnel. It consists of a storage tank that holds the cleaning or sanitizing chemical solution and a pump that continuously circulates this solution through the spray nozzles or jets within the tunnel's designated washing or sanitizing stage. Its primary role is to ensure a consistent supply of active solution at the required pressure and flow rate to effectively treat products (e.g., food containers, bottles, parts) as they pass through the tunnel, while also allowing for solution filtration, temperature control, and concentration management. The unit is typically constructed from stainless steel (AISI 304 or 316L) to withstand corrosive chemicals and washdown environments. Key parameters include tank capacity (500–2000 L), flow rate (10–60 m³/h), pump head (20–50 m), operating pressure (0.2–0.5 MPa), operating temperature (20–85 °C), motor power (2.2–7.5 kW, per IEC 60034), electrical supply (380–415 V AC, three-phase, 50 Hz, per IEC 60038), ingress protection (IP54–IP65, per IEC 60529), material grade (304–316L, per ASTM A240), and weight (150–400 kg). These values are reference ranges; the actual model must be selected based on specific flow rate, dwell time, nozzle requirements, and chemical compatibility. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.
The pump draws solution from the recirculation tank and pressurizes it, sending it through distribution piping to the spray system. Used solution drains back into the tank from the tunnel chamber, creating a closed-loop circuit. The system may include filters to remove debris, heaters or chillers to maintain solution temperature, and sensors (e.g., conductivity, pH) to monitor and automatically adjust chemical concentration.
