CIPsystemet

CIPsystemet, or Cleaning-In-Place system, refers to the set of equipment and procedures used to clean process equipment without disassembly. It is widely employed in the food and beverage industry, dairy, brewing, pharmaceutical manufacturing and other sectors requiring hygienic production.

A CIP system typically includes a dedicated cleaning skid or module, tanks for cleaning solutions, pumps, heat exchangers or in-line heaters, spray manifolds or jets, piping and valves, instrumentation (temperature, conductivity, level), and a programmable controller with human-machine interface. The system is designed to circulate cleaning solutions through process equipment to remove soils, biofilms and residues effectively.

Typical cleaning cycles: pre-rinse to remove gross soil, wash with alkaline cleaning solution at elevated temperature, rinse with clean water, sanitize with heat or chemical sanitizer, and a final rinse. Some installations use multi-tank configurations enabling sequential cleaning and sanitization; cycles often recirculate solution to improve heat transfer and reduce water use. The parameters—temperature, flow rate, chemical concentration and contact time—are controlled and monitored to ensure consistent outcomes.

Automation and standards: CIP cycles are controlled by PLCs or SCADA with sensors that monitor temperature, concentration and conductivity, and automatic dosing. Data logging supports traceability, validation and cleaning verification under GMP, HACCP and related standards. Materials and design: equipment is typically stainless steel (AISI 304/316) with sanitary finishes; designs minimize dead legs and crevices to improve cleanability. CIP skids may be standalone or integrated with process lines.

Applications and benefits: CIPsystemet is widely used in dairy, beverage, food processing and pharmaceuticals to improve hygiene, reduce downtime and labor, and optimize water, energy and chemical use.