Sustainable industrial cleaning is more about optimizing resources, enhancing productivity, and ensuring a safer environment. Clean India Journal captured some of the insights from industry discussions and expert recommendations from different industries and cleaning machine suppliers at Pune. This article delves into key aspects of smart strategies in industrial cleaning.
The diverse nature of industrial facilities necessitates a tailored approach to cleaning. A “one-size-fits-all” solution is rarely effective. Understanding the specific challenges of each industry is paramount to developing successful cleaning strategies.
During a recent interactive session on Smart Waste Strategies in Industrial Cleaning, a representative from a leading cleaning machine provider emphasized the collaborative approach to problem-solving. “We are here to help understand what your problems are, what kind of innovative solutions can be provided and being used in your respective industries. We are here basically to learn from each other,” they stated, setting the tone for a productive discussion.
Tailored Solutions & Efficiency Optimization
Customization is a cornerstone of effective industrial cleaning. Rather than forcing customers to purchase pre-configured machines, the focus should be on providing solutions that precisely match their needs.
A representative from a cleaning machine provider highlighted their meticulous approach to customization. They explained that their team conducts thorough site surveys, considering five key parameters – often referred to as the “FACTS of cleaning.” These include:
• Frequency (F): How often cleaning is required.
• Area (A): The total square meters to be cleaned.
• Contamination (C): The type of contaminants present, which dictates the accessories needed.
• Timeline (T): The timeframe within which cleaning must be completed.
• Surface (S): The type of surface to be cleaned.
Based on these parameters, the most suitable machine model and configuration are recommended.
The importance of efficiency was underscored by a representative from a prominent food manufacturing company, who questioned how to improve the efficiency of cleaning operations in manufacturing units where different machines are used in various zones with low utilization.
A cleaning machine provider representative acknowledged this challenge, suggesting that an on-site facility assessment would be necessary to understand the specific hurdles. They noted that often, such problems stem from a gap in technology and skill levels.
Addressing Industry-Specific Cleaning Challenges
Different industries present unique cleaning demands, requiring specialized solutions.
Food and Sugar Industry Cleaning
In the food industry, cleaning requirements are often area-based, focusing on maintaining stringent hygiene standards. For the sugar industry, a cleaning machine provider representative explained that the biggest challenge arises from fine particles flying during the feeding of raw sugarcane.
They suggested that collecting these particles at the source is the most effective solution. Furthermore, for each subsequent stage with its distinct pollution, customized cleaning solutions are required beyond just floor cleaning, encompassing proper industrial operation. They acknowledged that in sugar factories, dust is often a process-related inevitability.
Another expert highlighted the importance of preventing dust generation at the source, emphasizing that countless products are available in the market to achieve this. They drew a parallel with a highly clean global city, where a lack of visible dust is attributed to proactive measures to prevent its generation.
Steel Industry Cleaning
The steel industry, with its vast and complex environments, presents a formidable cleaning challenge. One participant described a steel manufacturing unit with 44 shop floors, each requiring a different type of cleaning. They likened the campus to a small city, with executive offices, restaurants, kilometers of internal roads, drains, and even areas resembling airports, generating approximately 25 tonnes of waste daily. This highlights the need for comprehensive and robust cleaning solutions that can address a wide array of contaminants and surface types.
Leveraging Advanced Technologies and Products
Beyond traditional cleaning methods, incorporating advanced technologies and products can significantly enhance cleaning efficiency and sustainability.
The discussion touched upon the benefits of integrating technologies like Video Assistant Service (VAS) and Robot Assistant Service (RAS) to augment cleaning equipment.
The use of nano cleaning products, particularly those from advanced economies, was also suggested. These products, when applied, can prevent dust from settling on surfaces, thereby reducing cleaning frequency. This technology is applicable to various surfaces, from vehicles to different sections within a facility. For walls and floors, sealants can be applied to prevent dust accumulation, offering a highly effective solution for large areas.
For the sugar manufacturing process, centralized vacuum cleaners and suction systems were recommended to reduce dust from the point where the sugarcane is fed into machines. Furthermore, for the acidic residues that can accumulate in pipes during the sugar process, cleaning chemicals, specifically enzyme-based liquids, were suggested as an effective solution. The point was reiterated that cleaning solutions should be available and utilized at each step of the process.
Innovations in Cleaning Equipment
Advancements in cleaning equipment itself play a crucial role in improving efficiency and catering to specific industry needs.
A cleaning machine supplier representative provided insights into their ride-on machines, which offer an eight-hour battery backup with lead-acid batteries, ensuring extended run-time. For the food and pharmaceutical industries, specialized machines with ‘antibac’ tanks for bacterial collection and stainless-steel chassis for durability were highlighted. The company also shared its plans to begin manufacturing in India by the end of the year, further emphasizing its commitment to the Indian market.