Electrical systems supplier Legrand has developed electrical systems for the food and beverage industry to enhance the industry’s efficient use of energy and to help the industry meet hygiene requirements, says Legrand Southern Africa GM Luk Ivens.
“Energy, safety and hygiene measures are critical in any food and beverage manufacturing plant. At most processing sites, electrical energy makes up about 30% of the energy used and Legrand works closely with manufacturers to improve performance, at the same time reducing their environmental footprint.
“We offer effective solutions for reduced energy consumption, greater control over operat- ing costs and adherence to stringent quality, hygiene and safety requirements in food production,” he explains.
The system offers 24 oper-ations of production units, which manage operating costs and ensure safety of the installation. It consists of cast resin transformers, which reduce electri- city consumption by up to 20% during off-peak activity phases in food and beverage production and a busbar trunking for the distribution of high currents of up to 6 300 A.
It also has a technical room, which distributes and protects the electrical infrastructure in a food processing plant and functions as a strategic area of the plant.
“We have ensured that our range meets stringent global standards for quality and safety and it has passed Legrand’s hygiene test protocols, especially for the food processing industry,” details Ivens.
Further, the system enhances efficient energy distribution in food processing sites, through the installation of high-quality systems designed specially for manufacturing environments that require compliance with hygiene standards.
“Other important components include industrial enclosures, process equipment protection, power supplies and control and signalling units, as well as lighting busbars. It also boasts weatherproof emergency lighting units, which are suitable for use in damp areas,” states Ivens.
Legrand also offers management solutions for a food production plant’s infrastructure. These encompass data performance, securing of sensitive areas and the control of electrical energy consumption.
“The system is easy to install, as it has the special design of a structured cabling system, which is compatible with other cabling products. We also offer uninterruptible power supply enclosures, with a capacity of up to 120 kVA,” he highlights.
In addition, the company has developed a range of access control and closed circuit television security systems for securing the most sensitive areas in food production plants, particularly laboratories.
It also provides fire alarms, fireman’s switches and emergency lighting for enhanced safety and reduced energy consumption.
“Legrand’s range of ecodesig-ned products for food processing environments is manufactured from special materials to meet electrical and mechanical safety requirements and resist the various stresses in the food processing environment.
“These materials include stainless steel, as well as plastic, metal, rubber and composite components. Surface treatment ensures resistance to oxidising and abrasive washing products and offers durability and extended service life in demanding installations,” concludes Ivens.