Food and beverage (F&B) facilities require system solutions that effectively prevent ingress, corrosion, and contamination while meeting critical application requirements such as design, material specifications, temperature and ingress protection ratings, trade sizes, and regulatory approvals. In this article, we’ll explore the three biggest risks in F&B production systems and how ABB Installation Products provide tailored solutions, helping facilities enhance operational efficiency and reduce overall costs.
Risk #1: Ingress Protection
Failed ingress protection is the leading cause for electrical system downtime in F&B and presents a significant contamination risk. Ingress protection failure can occur as a result of improper ratings, failing components, or open paths into the electrical system. Harsh and caustic chemicals can commonly damage components, creating openings for liquid ingress.
Liquid ingress can severely affect electrical systems in the F&B industry, damaging equipment and posing risks to safety, productivity, regulatory compliance, and brand reputation. Increased maintenance, repairs, and replacements drive up operational costs and strain resources. To mitigate these risks, facilities should use enclosures and motors with UL Type 4, 4X, 12, and IP69 ingress protection ratings. These solutions help safeguard equipment and controls, ensuring uninterrupted processes and long-term reliability.
Risk #2: Corrosion Protection
Corrosion costs the F&B industry over $2 billion annually, posing significant risks to electrical systems, equipment reliability, and overall product safety. When cable protection and wire management are compromised, the likelihood of electrical failures increases, along with the potential for contamination. This not only threatens operational efficiency but also raises serious concerns about compliance and consumer trust.
Corrosion in F&B facilities is often caused by the release of metal ions or particles into products, which can degrade quality and safety. Factors such as acidity, alkalinity, and food components like sugars, salts, organic acids, and enzymes contribute to this issue. External elements, including temperature fluctuations, humidity, frequent washdowns, and mechanical stress, can accelerate the corrosion process. One common challenge is the improper mating of dissimilar metals, which exacerbates degradation and increases the risk of system failure.
To mitigate these risks, facilities must implement robust corrosion control measures. Regular maintenance inspections, the use of corrosion-resistant materials, and stringent cleaning and sanitation protocols are essential. Monitoring the pH levels and chemical composition of processing environments can further prevent corrosion-related issues. While some signs of corrosion can be detected visually, proactive monitoring and preventive strategies are necessary to ensure long-term equipment reliability and food safety.
Risk #3: Food Safety
Food safety is a top priority for decision-makers in the food and beverage industry, requiring careful consideration of cable protection and wire management to maintain a hygienic environment. Material limitations, poor design, and improper ratings or certifications can all contribute to contamination risks. When these factors are overlooked, they compromise the integrity of electrical systems and create potential hazards in food production areas.
Failing to uphold food safety standards can result in severe consequences, from costly product recalls to reputational damage and even criminal liability for facility personnel. To mitigate these risks, F&B processing facilities must adhere to strict hygiene protocols and implement a standardized approach to cable protection and wire management. The effectiveness of food safety measures depends on the weakest link in the system, making it essential to use properly rated, high-quality products across the entire facility.
ABB’s Solutions
ABB’s T&B LiquidTight products are tailor-made to provide essential protection for food and beverage facilities by addressing these three major risks. With UL Type 4, 4X, 12, and IP69 ingress protection ratings, these conduit systems safeguard electrical components from moisture, dust, and high-pressure washdowns. This ensures reliable operation in environments where frequent cleaning and sanitation are necessary.
To combat corrosion, ABB’s T&B LiquidTight solutions are made from corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel and specialized coatings. These materials withstand exposure to caustic cleaning agents, extreme temperatures, and food-related substances such as acids, salts, and enzymes. By preventing material degradation, they help reduce maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of electrical infrastructure in food processing plants.
Food safety is a critical concern, and ABB’s solutions support hygienic design principles by offering smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces that prevent bacteria buildup. Made from food-grade, non-toxic materials, these products help prevent contamination risks and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Agilix Solutions is an authorized distributor of ABB Installation Products. We work with F&B companies to incorporate ABB’s T&B LiquidTight systems to enhance operational safety, protect product integrity, and maintain brand reputation. Reach out to your account manager or contact your nearest branch to take the first step toward minimizing risk and avoiding potential product loss and unnecessary costs.