Are AS 1163 Hollow Sections Suitable for Use in the Food Processing Industry?
As a supplier of AS 1163 Hollow Sections, I've often been asked about the suitability of these products for the food processing industry. This is a crucial question, considering the strict hygiene and safety standards that the food processing sector must adhere to. In this blog, I'll explore the key factors that determine whether AS 1163 Hollow Sections are a good fit for food processing applications.
Understanding AS 1163 Hollow Sections
AS 1163 is an Australian Standard that specifies the requirements for hot - formed and cold - formed welded structural hollow sections of structural steels. These hollow sections come in various shapes, such as rectangular, square, and circular, and are widely used in construction, engineering, and other industries due to their high strength, durability, and versatility.
The materials used in AS 1163 Hollow Sections are typically mild steel, which offers good mechanical properties at a relatively low cost. The manufacturing process involves welding the steel sheets or strips to form the hollow shape, and then the sections are often heat - treated to improve their strength and ductility.
Hygiene Requirements in the Food Processing Industry
The food processing industry has stringent hygiene requirements to ensure the safety and quality of the food products. Equipment and materials used in this industry must be easy to clean and sanitize to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. They should also be resistant to corrosion, as rust and other forms of corrosion can contaminate the food and pose a health risk.
In addition, the materials should not react with the food products. Some chemicals in food, such as acids and salts, can cause chemical reactions with certain metals, leading to the leaching of harmful substances into the food.
Corrosion Resistance
One of the main concerns when considering AS 1163 Hollow Sections for food processing is their corrosion resistance. Mild steel, the primary material in these sections, is prone to rusting when exposed to moisture and oxygen. In a food processing environment, where there is often high humidity, water, and cleaning agents, corrosion can be a significant problem.
However, there are ways to improve the corrosion resistance of AS 1163 Hollow Sections. One common method is to apply a protective coating, such as zinc plating or powder coating. Zinc plating creates a sacrificial layer that corrodes instead of the steel, providing a certain level of protection. Powder coating, on the other hand, forms a hard, durable layer that can prevent moisture and chemicals from reaching the steel surface.
If the hollow sections are properly coated, they can have a reasonable level of corrosion resistance in a food processing environment. But it's important to note that the coating needs to be inspected regularly for any signs of damage or wear, as a damaged coating can expose the steel to corrosion.
Cleanability
Cleanability is another critical factor in the food processing industry. AS 1163 Hollow Sections can be designed and fabricated in a way that makes them easy to clean. Smooth surfaces are preferred, as they are less likely to trap food particles and bacteria. Sharp corners and crevices should be avoided, as they can be difficult to clean thoroughly.
When using AS 1163 Hollow Sections in food processing equipment, it's important to ensure that there are no internal cavities or spaces where water or food residues can accumulate. Regular cleaning and sanitization procedures should be established, and the sections should be inspected after each cleaning to ensure that they are free of contaminants.
Compatibility with Food Products
As mentioned earlier, the materials used in food processing equipment must be compatible with the food products. Mild steel in AS 1163 Hollow Sections can react with some acidic or salty foods, especially over time. For example, the iron in the steel can react with acids in fruits or vegetables, causing discoloration and potentially affecting the taste and quality of the food.
To address this issue, a food - grade coating can be applied to the hollow sections. A food - grade coating is a special type of coating that is approved for use in contact with food and does not pose a health risk. These coatings can act as a barrier between the steel and the food, preventing any chemical reactions.
Cost - Effectiveness
One of the advantages of using AS 1163 Hollow Sections in the food processing industry is their cost - effectiveness. Compared to some other materials, such as stainless steel, mild steel hollow sections are generally less expensive. This can be a significant factor for food processing companies, especially those on a tight budget.
However, it's important to consider the long - term costs. If the sections require frequent maintenance, such as recoating or replacement due to corrosion, the overall cost may increase over time. So, a cost - benefit analysis should be conducted to determine whether the initial savings in material cost are worth the potential long - term expenses.
Case Studies
There are some examples of successful use of AS 1163 Hollow Sections in the food processing industry. In some small - scale food processing operations, where the budget is limited and the processing conditions are not extremely harsh, properly coated AS 1163 Hollow Sections have been used to build frames and supports for food processing equipment.
For instance, a local bakery used AS 1163 Hollow Sections to construct the frame of a dough mixer. The sections were zinc - plated to improve corrosion resistance, and regular cleaning and maintenance procedures were implemented. After several years of use, the frame was still in good condition, and there were no issues with food contamination.
On the other hand, in large - scale industrial food processing plants with more demanding environments, stainless steel is often the preferred choice due to its superior corrosion resistance and compatibility with food products.
Conclusion
So, are AS 1163 Hollow Sections suitable for use in the food processing industry? The answer is that it depends on the specific application and the operating conditions. In some cases, where the budget is limited, the processing environment is not too harsh, and proper corrosion protection and cleaning measures are in place, AS 1163 Hollow Sections can be a viable option.
However, for applications where high - level hygiene and long - term durability are required, such as in large - scale food processing plants, stainless steel or other more corrosion - resistant materials may be a better choice.
If you're interested in learning more about our Ms Hollow Section, API5L/ASTM A106 SEAMLESS STEEL PIPE, or API5L X52M PSL1/PSL 2 LSAW Steel Pipe products and their suitability for your food processing needs, feel free to contact us. We can provide you with detailed information and technical support to help you make the right decision.
References
- "Food Safety and Hygiene in the Food Industry," Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
- "Corrosion Prevention in the Food Processing Industry," National Association of Corrosion Engineers.
- AS 1163: Australian Standard for Hot - formed and Cold - formed Welded Structural Hollow Sections of Structural Steels.
