PC pumps for food waste handling

The pump industry relies on expertise from a large and varied range of specialists, from experts in particular pump types to those with an intimate understanding of pump reliability; and from researchers who delve into the particulars of pump curves to experts in pump efficiency. To draw upon the wealth of expert knowledge the Australian pump industry has to offer, Pump Industry has established a panel of experts to answer all your pumping questions.

In this edition of Ask an Expert, we are covering progressive cavity (PC) pumps for waste management in the food and beverage industry. The pumps move a wide range of by-products and waste more efficiently and without odours, contributing to a better health, safety and environmental record.

Q: How do PC pumps simplify food and beverage waste management?

A: Manufacturers specialising in PC pumps for the food and beverage industry offer comprehensive products that seamlessly chop, pump and move food waste. This includes a wide range of by-products – from whole chickens and fish to vegetable peels and fruit cores.

Q: What are the benefits of using PC pumps for food waste disposal compared to traditional methods?

A: Firstly, PC pumps improve hygiene standards by transferring waste through a closed piping system, eliminating the need for dedicated cleaning of waste containers. This reduces the risk of cross-contamination, which is particularly important in high care areas. Secondly, these pumps improve health and safety by minimising manual handling and reducing the potential for accidents such as slipping on waste. Finally, PC pumps offer significant cost savings by reducing water consumption, transportation costs and operating and energy costs when compared to traditional methods such as vacuum or compressed air systems.

Q: How do PC pumps contribute to the environmental sustainability of food waste management?

A: Custom PC pumps play an important role in environmental sustainability by reducing food waste by up to 60 per cent. This not only allows for easier transportation, but also supports efforts to minimise waste and maximise resource utilisation. In addition to this, PC pumps operate efficiently without requiring additional water, promoting responsible water use. By offering custom options for challenging waste streams and integrating dewatering devices, they help to further reduce waste volume and improve overall sustainability.

Q: What are the safety features of PC pumps when handling food waste?

A: Safety is paramount when handling food waste and various PC pump manufacturers have made this a priority.
By automating the waste disposal process and minimising manual intervention, these pumps significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the factory floor. Additionally, the pumps streamline operation, minimising traffic and hazards in high-risk areas. This includes reducing the number of forklifts and workers, which improves the overall safety and efficiency.

Q: How are different types of food waste, including challenging waste streams handled?

A: Specialised PC pump solutions can effectively handle diverse food waste streams. For example, the SEEPEX BTM pump range includes features such as feed augers, macerating knives and grinders to handle large, highly viscous or non- flowable foods.

Q: What industries can benefit from PC pumps for food waste handling?

A: PC pumps serve a wide range of industries within the food and beverage sector – from fruit and vegetable processing to seafood, poultry and meat processing. The versatile pumping solutions address the unique challenges of each industry, providing efficient and hygienic food waste disposal options tailored to specific needs.

For more information on PC pumps and their applications in food waste handling, please contact SEEPEX directly to discuss your specific needs.

Peter Vila, Managing Director of SEEPEX Australia, is a progressive cavity pump expert. He has been involved with pumps for over 40 years. Peter spent the first five years repairing pumps and the following 35 years in technical sales, 20 of which have been with SEEPEX progressive cavity pumps. For more information on progressive cavity pumps, please contact SEEPEX Australia on (02) 4355 4500 or at info.au@seepex.com

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