With attention on the environment, “green” practices and efficiency are focuses of the liquid processing industry. In fact, 72% of consumers are more interested in sustainable brands. Overall, brands have a responsibility to customers and their bottom line to think about how their liquid processing equipment and procedures affect our world.
For that reason, many process equipment solutions as of late have had a wide focus on sustainability.
Liquid Processing Equipment
Power Technologies
To power liquid processing equipment, large amounts of electricity are needed. Many mixing plants are looking toward renewable options. For example, Organic Valley, a dairy processing plant, installed 332 rooftop solar panels. This was done to produce 200 kilowatts, geothermal heating and cooling, and a wind farm.
Another liquid processing company turning to solar power is SPX FLOW. SPX FLOW converted the rooftop of their manufacturing facility in Belgium into a solar array. The electricity created powers the entire location and all liquid processing equipment.
Water, wind, solar, and geothermal energy options could make up 27% of total energy consumption of global manufacturing by 2030.
“Tough Liquid” Technologies
In the “work smarter, not harder” category, there are the latest industrial pumps and liquid mixers. These include the Hydra-Cell AP1674 pump and the collaboration between UUtechnic and Lightnin. These industrial pump and liquid mixing technologies consider non-lubricating, very viscous, or abrasive fluids. These fluids can hold back performance if not addressed.
There are multiple properties that could lead to classification of “tough liquid”. These include viscosity, density, miscibility, solubility, behavior variability at different temperatures, and phase change.
In the past, companies may have upped liquid mixer cycle times or the horsepower of their industrial mixers. This led to slower time to market, higher initial equipment costs and greater long-term operating expenses. By innovating with efficiency in mind, processing plants can save energy.
Containment Technologies
Reducing carbon emissions is a priority for just about everyone right now. The liquid processing industr included. One focus is containing liquids to get rid of leaks into the atmosphere. Many liquid processing companies also look to eliminate current and avoid future ground contamination. This is especially concerning around explosive materials. Explosive materials include liquids that could create combustive gasses during processing.
Constant innovation in pursuit of cleaner manufacturing and mixing, more efficient power use, and safer containment is important for lowering greenhouse emissions. Additionally, it is important for reducing waste and the carbon footprints of various industries. Process equipment manufacturers such as SPX FLOW, with 44% of its 853 patents focused on sustainability and clean production, will help the world as a whole “clear the air,” so to speak.
Choosing liquid processing equipment that meets or exceeds standards and certifications is important. It helps to meet sustainability measures that provide for a better future. Using the industrial process equipment suppliers and solutions mentioned is a great place to start.
At Mills Winfield Engineering Sales, Inc. we have over 90 years of specializing in processing equipment. We represent the manufacturers of the best in standard and engineered process equipment available. Our customers include end users, engineers, contractors, and OEM’s in a wide range of industries including food, chemical processing, corn milling and grain processing, paints & coatings, personal care and cosmetic products, pharmaceuticals, plastics, municipal, steel, and more! Give us a call today!