To scientifically validate the effectiveness of UV-based air disinfection in an air cooler, the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging conducted a series of tests in cooperation with the heat exchanger manufacturer thermofin and Nuvonic.
UV-C radiation is a highly effective tool for combating harmful bacteria, pathogenic germs, yeasts and mould spores. Up to 99.9 % of microorganisms can be efficiently deactivated, making UV-C suitable as a disinfection technology for use in any area of the food industry. The targeted use of the technology can minimize the risk of contamination and increase the standard of hygiene even in the most demanding areas of the food processing industry such as production rooms, cold storage, warehouses, and high-risk packaging areas.
In addition to improved hygiene, there is also a significant economic advantage.
A large savings potential arises from extended cleaning intervals and the resulting lower personnel expenses. The use of cost-intensive chemicals is significantly reduced.
As an installation in evaporators and air coolers, UV-C also ensures lower energy consumption. Cooling leads to condensation on the cooling fins, where suspended solids and microorganisms from production are deposited. The result is biofilms that both reduce the cooling load and release germs into the production air. When the UV-C devices are mounted directly in front of or behind the cooling fins of the air cooler, the UV-C radiation prevents the formation of biofilms and the cooling load of the evaporator remains constant.
UVpro disinfection units for use in the food processing industry, are IFS and HACCP compliant due to their shatterproof design.
Up to 99.9 % germ reduction.
To scientifically validate the effectiveness of UV-based air disinfection in an air cooler, the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging conducted a series of tests in cooperation with the heat exchanger manufacturer thermofin and Nuvonic.
The subject of this microbiological investigation was a thermofin air cooler with four integrated UVpro disinfection devices. It was investigated which effect the UVC device had on the airborne concentration of Bacillus subtilis DSM 4181 spores in the room over time, compared to a room without a UVC device.
The diagram illustrates the results of the study. After only 20 minutes, a significant germ reduction of 99 % can be seen compared to the control group without UV-C due to the disinfection unit installed in the air cooler. After less than 40 minutes, over 99.9 % of the initial germ concentration was effectively removed from the test room.
The overall result of the installation is very positive. Since commissioning, no germs have been detected in the water. The use of chemicals, which cost around €7,000 per year to procure, has been completely eliminated
Taking into account the life cycle of a UVC tube and the associated costs of a tube replacement after 12,000 operating hours, approx. 5,600 € can be saved annually. The system pays for itself after about 1.5 – 2 years.
Improved air hygiene during ongoing production .
The formerly problematic air cooler turns into a disinfection device.
For the full test report, please contact info@UVpro.de.
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Nuvonic is the innovator in sustainable UV technology for water, air and surface disinfectant on a global scale. Our mission is to support nature’s purity with science by protecting people and processes from harmful contamination.
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