When it comes to food and beverage manufacturing, cleanliness isn’t just a goal—it’s a mandate. Clean-in-place (CIP) systems make it possible to keep production lines sanitary without tearing down equipment. But to run efficiently, these systems need smart monitoring tools—like level sensors. At Automation Products Group, Inc. (APG), we provide reliable level sensing solutions that can help your CIP system operate safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime.
What is CIP and Why Does It Matter?
Clean-in-place (CIP) is an automated method for cleaning the internal surfaces of pipes, tanks, and equipment—without having to disassemble them. These systems typically follow this cleaning cycle:
- Pre-rinse with water
- Caustic wash to remove organic materials
- Intermediate rinse
- Final wash (if needed) to break down mineral buildup
- Final rinse
With CIP systems, all the rinsing and cleaning solutions go through the same piping system as the product. This reduces labor cost, time, and limits worker exposure to chemicals. With proper automation, plants can run CIP cycles on a regular schedule—improving consistency and food safety.
How Level Sensors Support CIP Performance
With a CIP system, there are multiple tanks to hold the cleaning water, the sanitizer solutions, and even acid solution washes. These tanks need to be monitored, and level sensors make that easy.
Here’s how different sensors can enhance your CIP setup:
- Ultrasonic Level Sensors can monitor water tanks to ensure you have enough water for each cycle.
- Radar Level Sensors can monitor tanks with acid or other cleaning chemicals. It ensures there’s enough solution inside the tank for the next cleaning.
- Point Level Sensors helps with detecting the limits the tank can be safely filled, preventing overflow and cleaning agents spilling.
- Continuous Level Transmitters offer real-time monitoring of cleaning agents unaffected by foam, temperature changes, or uneven surfaces.
Smarter Inventory Management Starts with Visibility
Inventory management shouldn’t be a guessing game with your CIP systems. With level sensors in place, your team can:
- Receive low-level alerts before tanks run dry.
- Streamline reordering and delivery of chemicals.
- Avoid process interruptions and keep cleaning cycles on track.
CIP systems are the backbone of sanitation in food and beverage production. And level sensors are the eyes that keep them running smoothly. At APG, we’re here to help you find the right sensor for your system—whether you need ultrasonic, radar, or continuous level transmitters. Talk to an APG product expert to find the right level sensing solution for your CIP system.