In the photo are samples that we provide to customers to show the different types of finishes available in the design and manufacturing of equipment for industries that require a high degree of sanitation.
From the left:
2B Finish: Has common corrosion resistance properties, heat resistant, smooth (not brushed) steel. The RA (roughness average) is 36 to 15 depending on the gauge of the material.
#4 Finish: Is Characterized by short, polished brushed lines and is suitable for caustic wash down procedures. The RA is from 29 – 40 depending on the gauge of the material.
Pickle Passivation: A treatment also referred to as descaling, pickle passivation removes the scale and leaves a matte finish that is free from contamination. Apache’s tests have proven an increase in RA smoothness up to 25%, compared to measurements before the material was pickle passivated.
Bead Blast: Bead blasting utilizes material such as glass, ceramic beads to produce a non-directional, textured surface with a satin appearance and low reflectivity. The finish is not necessarily smooth, depending on the process and blasting medium. RA readings are typically greater than 45.
Electropolish: Surface metal is dissolved, removing all embedded contaminants, which creates a smooth, mirror-like finish. Apache’s tests have proven to increase smoothness up to 50%, compared to measurement before the material was electropolished.
For detailed information about these finishes and processes, download our white paper “Leveraging Stainless Steel Finishes on Sanitary Equipment”.
Mepaco, the food processing group of Apache Stainless Equipment Corporation, has three cookers available for testing as a courtesy to customers.
The ThermaBlend “batch” Cooker offers a superior thermal processing solution with excellent cooking, cooling and blending characteristics. It is engineered for long lasting service for large-scale cooking applications.
The Continuous Cooker is used where batch cooking is not applicable. The equipment offers a variety of processing options, including the use of steam, water and oil cooking medias.
In utilizing the test cookers, Mepaco can conduct time studies and prove-out product integrity and production efficiencies. Mepaco uses the data to determine adjustment to horsepower, BTU’s, number of injectors and other performance criteria. The test results are scalable to maximize the efficiency of a larger system.
There is no cost to use our test unit. Customers typically pay for freight and replacement of parts in the event of loss or damage. If a technician is required, Mepaco simply asks for travel/lodging expenses for that service person.
For more information on the ThermaBlend unit, click here! For more information on the Continuous Cooker, click here!
Contact the sales support person in your area to inquire about using a test unit.
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