How Is CIP Used in Breweries? Everything You Need to Know

Posted on February 28, 2023 by Cedarstone Industry Team

In the world of brewing, ensuring the quality and consistency of the product is of utmost importance. One of the key steps in maintaining high standards is the cleaning and sanitization of the equipment. This is when cleaning in place (CIP) comes into play. It’s an efficient process that has revolutionized the way breweries maintain their equipment. What should you know about CIP in breweries? Keep reading to discover the benefits and steps involved in the clean in place process!

 

 

What is CIP in breweries?

CIP is a cleaning process that is used to clean the interior surfaces of tanks, pipes, and other equipment used in the production of beer without the need to disassemble the equipment.

The process involves circulating cleaning solutions through the equipment, followed by rinsing and sanitizing, to ensure that all surfaces are free of contaminants, residue, and bacteria.

Modern CIP systems can be automated and can be programmed to run according to specific cleaning protocols, reducing the risk of human error and ensuring consistent results.

Want to learn more? Check our article: What is the clean-in-place system and how can it benefit you?

 

Benefits of cleaning in place in breweries

There are many reasons why breweries should consider trying this cleaning method. Top benefits include:

  • Improved efficiency – CIP systems allow for more efficient cleaning processes, as they can be programmed to run at specific times, reducing downtime and increasing production efficiency. Additionally, the automation of the process reduces the amount of manual labor required, freeing up staff to focus on other tasks.
  • Better consistency – thanks to automation and modern solutions, cleaning in place guarantees consistent results, ensuring that all equipment is cleaned to the same standard each time. This consistency is critical in maintaining the quality and taste of the beer, as any residue or contaminants left on the equipment can affect the final product.
  • Enhanced safety – this cutting-edge method reduces the risk of injury to brewery staff, as manual cleaning can be physically demanding and dangerous. It’s also worth mentioning that automation helps to prevent potential human errors such as using wrong cleaning products.
  • Improved environmental sustainability – cutting-edge CIP systems allow breweries to reduce their water and energy consumption. This means that organizations can become more eco-friendly, decrease their carbon footprint, and become more sustainable. Want to learn how to choose the right clean in place system for your brewery? Check our guide.

 

How is CIP used in breweries? 5 steps involved in the process

How to use CIP in breweries? The process involves the following steps:

Preparation

Before starting the CIP process, the equipment must be prepared by closing all valves, draining any remaining product, and securing all hoses and connections. This step is critical to ensure that the cleaning solution can circulate freely through the components without leaking.

Circulation of cleaning solution

Once your equipment is ready, you can move on to the second step – circulating the cleaning solution. It’s typically a mixture of water, detergents, and other cleaning agents that are designed to remove residue, dirt and contaminants.

The cleaning solution is automatically pumped through the equipment and left to soak for a specified period of time to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.

Drain and rinse

Next, it’s time to drain the equipment and rinse it with water to remove the cleaning solution. This step is crucial to ensure that there are no harmful substances, detergents, or other contaminants on your brewery machinery.

Sanitization

The next to last step in the CIP process is to sanitize your equipment. This is typically done by circulating a special sanitizing solution, such as sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide, through the equipment. It helps to kill any remaining bacteria or other harmful microorganisms that could affect the quality of end products.

Final rinse and drain

Once the sanitizing solution has been rinsed, the equipment needs to be drained once again to remove all residual sanitizer from the equipment. As you can see, the entire CIP process doesn’t have to be complex or time-consuming.

 

Where to start?

Implementing CIP in your brewery is a great way to automate the cleaning process and make it more efficient.

If you’re interested in this solution, make sure you choose a reputable supplier who specializes in creating CIP systems tailored to the characteristics and requirements of the brewing industry. Thanks to it, you’ll be able to fully benefit from the clean in place system and enjoy functionalities that fit the specific needs of your business.

Do you need help? Contact us! Our experienced team will be more than happy to resolve your doubts, advise you on the best solution for your needs and improve the efficiency of your brewery.

 

 

The takeaway

Cleaning in place (CIP) is an essential process for any brewery that wants to ensure the quality and consistency of its end products. Advanced and modern CIP systems provide a range of benefits, including improved efficiency, better regulatory compliance, enhanced safety of both employees and equipment, as well as reduced carbon footprint and improved environmental sustainability.

By following the steps involved in the CIP process and choosing the right systems tailored to their needs, breweries can ensure that their equipment is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized and maintained in good condition. All this while reducing the risk of contamination and keeping up with the highest standards of quality. Don’t wait and explore available options today!