Challenge
A leading snack food processor required a tunnel washer solution to keep pace with their high-volume production demands. The system needed to hygienically clean a wide range of reusable plastic totes, pans, and buckets—vital to their workflow—while accommodating varying part sizes. Key requirements included food-safe construction, energy efficiency, expandability for future needs, and consistent, reliable cleaning results.
Approach
Better Engineering custom-designed and delivered the C-48 Cyberjet tunnel tote washer to address these needs. The system comprises three fully enclosed tunnel modules: a recirculated wash stage, a recirculated rinse/sanitizing stage, and a high-temperature heated dry stage. This three-stage, modular tunnel system was engineered for flexibility, hygiene, and high performance:
- Custom Part Accommodation: The 48” wide conveyor handles totes and pans from as small as 26″ × 18″ × 1″ to as large as 25.5″ × 21.625″ × 3″, ensuring all production containers are cleaned efficiently.
- Modular, Food-Safe Design: Each stage—wash, rinse, and dry—is a separate, bolted (not welded) stainless-steel module, allowing for future expansion and easy reconfiguration. All wetted surfaces are 304 stainless steel for food-grade compliance and corrosion resistance.
- Efficient Wash & Rinse: “S5” configuration modules feature Midco 500k BTU gas burners for rapid heating, auto water level controls, pitched tank floors for hygiene, and quick-disconnect manifolds and spray nozzles for fast maintenance.
- Energy-Saving Drying: The insulated drying tunnel uses a 250°F centrifugal blower and recirculates 90% of the air, dramatically reducing energy consumption.
- Ergonomic Operation: Load and unload stations are set at a 40” working height, and conveyor speeds are fully adjustable for optimal throughput.
- Advanced Controls: Centralized NEMA-12 control panel with optional Allen Bradley PLC and 10” HMI touchscreen for automation and monitoring
Results
The C-48 Cyberjet tunnel tote washer has transformed the client’s sanitation process. The system delivers superior, consistent cleaning for all totes and pans, regardless of size, while minimizing manual labor. Its modular design supports future expansion, and the food-grade stainless construction ensures compliance and long-term durability. The advanced automation features streamline operation, and the energy-efficient drying and recirculated wash/rinse stages have helped the client significantly reduce water and energy usage. As a result, the facility now enjoys higher throughput, improved hygiene, and a sustainable, future-proof cleaning solution.
Conclusion
By implementing the C-48 Cyberjet tunnel tote washer, this snack food processor has solved the challenge of high-throughput, hygienic cleaning for various production containers. The modular, energy-efficient system supports current operational needs and positions the facility for future growth and sustainability, setting a new standard for food production sanitation.
Interested in finding your solution? Contact us for more information, a facility tour, or free part testing.
