By Rittal on Feb 10, 2021 12:00:00 AM
Traditionally, food and beverage enclosures in Australia have featured black or grey polyurethane seals. Enclosures at the forefront of the industry however are now using FDA approved silicon seals for improved hygiene standards and faster cleaning.
So What Is It About Blue Silicon Seals That Allow More Effective Cleaning?
External & Joint Free
The external placement of the seal eliminates the gap between enclosure body and door. This protects the enclosure from contaminates and creates a water-tight and smooth transition which is quick and easy to clean.
Distinguishability
Using blue silicon seals helps distinguish the seals from food particles. Blue seals can also be X- ray scanned for any contaminants. Easy to spot contaminants allow for quicker and more effective cleaning.
Durability
Silicon is water and chemical resistant. It can also withstand high temperatures for long periods of time. Silicon seals can therefore retain their strength and function under the most aggressive cleaning agents and rigorous wash-down procedures, protecting food and equipment from hot water, caustic soda, nitric acid and various other solvents. Silicon seals are also non-porous, non-absorbent and unaffected by food products which makes them ideal for the food and beverage industry.
Strength & Flexibility
If a gap expands or contracts, the silicone will adjust to ensure that the equipment maintains its proper seal. It also has a tensile strength equal to 1015psi which gives it far more adhesive strength than other types of seal. The strength and flexibility of silicon therefore ensures that the smooth transition between the enclosure and door always remains intact. This keeps potential contaminates out and ensures that the surface remains easy to clean no matter what.
Quick Drying
Silicon's quick-drying properties further reduces cleaning time. Are There Other Advantages To Blue Silicon Seals
Longevity
Most manufacturers believe silicon seals can last anywhere from 10 to 35 years. Investing in blue silicon seals will save you money and the hassle of replacing your seals further down the track.
Removable and Replaceable
Although they last upwards of ten years, silicon seals only take minutes to replace if required. To replace non-removable seals, you would have to replace the entire door which could cost you anywhere from $500 to $1500.
What Other Advancements Are There?
Standards in the Australian food and beverage industry are changing fast. Non Food Grade Enclosures are
no longer meeting the hygiene requirements of the industry and Food Grade Enclosures are quickly
becoming essential. To learn more about how Food Grade Enclosures can help streamline your processes,
download our E-book: Food Grade Enclosures A Buyers Guide. Or for a one-on-one consultation with an expert about your specific needs, contact our team today.