Steam Cleaning and Sanitizing of Conveyor Belts

REA Steam Cleaning has a wide range of systems for manual or automatic washing of conveyor belts used in various industries but in particular in the agro-food industry.

Belt Cleaning Tools

For automatic washing after production of smooth belts, VDA model , which can also be used during production but at intervals. For automatic washing after production of modular belts, Tornado model .

For automatic washing after or during production of Flexlink type chain belts,  Steamatic model, winner of the Horizon 2020 awardFor automatic washing during the production of smooth belts, Jolly S1 and Jolly S2 models .  For automatic washing during the production of modular belts , model Jolly D.

 

Steam washing and degreasing offers a number of advantages over the traditional manual method (rag with chemicals and solvents):

    • Fast and safe for the operator (no physical contact with chemicals)
    • Economical (no dirty water to dispose of, does not dirty the floor or walls, unlike high pressure washing, no need to disassemble or mask sensitive parts)
    • Safe for machinery, the contained pressure (145 PSI), does not damage sensitive components such as electrical parts, sensors, gaskets, filters.
    • Equipment can be immediately reused after cleaning. The steam treated surface increases in temperature and dries by immediate evaporation.

Steam Belt Cleaners for the Food Industry

These steam belt cleaners are an ideal solution for achieving HACCP compliance without the need for chemical detergents. Independent laboratory testing has confirmed the effectiveness of steam in the disinfection process.

Designed for continuous operation, these models function without requiring an operator, offering several key benefits:

  • Reduced labor and downtime: Automated cleaning eliminates the need for manual intervention and reduces labor costs.

  • Continuous cleaning and sanitation: Wash, sanitize, and dry the conveyor belt during or after production without stopping the line.

  • Customizable fit: Compatible with any belt width, with no need to modify the conveyor frame.

  • Easy installation and mobility: Tool-free setup allows quick assembly and smooth relocation between conveyors.

  • Dry and safe operation: Efficient extraction of steam and wastewater keeps the belt dry and prevents leaks, ensuring operator safety.

  • Flexible cleaning options: Use steam alone or combine with water depending on the level of contamination.

  • Integration with existing systems: Can connect to the factory’s existing steam supply.

Manual Belt Washing Solutions

For manual cleaning of conveyor belts, we offer a range of specialized tools:

  • Goose Beak Lance (Product Code: 202 VD / EP)

  • Nylon Brush (Product Codes: 459 and 3043)

  • Steam + Water + Suction Brush (Product Code: 210 VDA)

All tools are manufactured using materials compliant with agri-food industry regulations, ensuring safety and hygiene in food processing environments.

For automatic post-production cleaning of smooth belts, we recommend the VDA model, which can also be used during production in timed intervals.

Automatic Belt Washing Solutions

  • Tornado Model: Designed for automatic cleaning of modular belts after production.

  • Steamatic Model: Ideal for automatic cleaning of Flexlink-type chain belts, both during and after production. This innovative system is a recipient of the prestigious Horizon 2020 award.

  • Jolly S1 and Jolly S2 Models: Engineered for automatic cleaning of smooth belts during production.

  • Jolly D Model: Specifically developed for automatic cleaning of modular belts during production.

Advantages of steam for washing and degreasing conveyor belts

High-Temperature Dry Steam Cleaning

Dry steam reaches surface temperatures of approximately 250°F, delivering powerful cleaning and sanitizing performance.

  • The heat of the steam destroys and eliminates microorganisms, including those hidden in hard-to-reach areas and within biofilms.

  • Unlike chemicals, high temperature prevents bacteria from developing resistance, ensuring a more reliable sanitizing process.

  • Oils and greases melt instantly under heat, making them easy to remove from equipment and surfaces.

  • Heated surfaces dry quickly, allowing equipment to be returned to use in minimal time.

⚠️ Safety Note: Although the exhaust temperature is high, the very low moisture content of dry steam minimizes the risk of burns or scalds for operators and staff.

Very Low Humidity Steam

Dry (saturated) steam contains only about 5% water, making it one of the most efficient and versatile cleaning solutions available.

With REA Steam Cleaning systems:

  • Minimal water consumption – Only 3.2 gallons per hour on 9 kW models and up to 13 gallons per hour on 36 kW models. That’s 20–50 times less water than traditional wash methods using water, foam, and rinse cycles.

  • Safe for sensitive equipment – Steam can be used directly on and around electrical and electronic equipment, controls, sensors, and seals without risk of shorting or damage. This eliminates the need for masking, disassembly, or transport.

  • Eco-friendly savings – Reduces water consumption and wastewater generation by up to 95%, lowering both supply and disposal costs.

  • Time efficiency – Minimal water to clean up after washing means faster turnaround and less downtime.

  • Flexible applications – Low water usage allows cleaning in areas without water lines and supports “dry” cleaning protocols.

  • Fast drying – Low humidity combined with high heat leaves surfaces dry and ready for immediate use.

  • Safe for operators – The low moisture content eliminates the risk of burns or scalds.

By combining very low humidity with high heat, REA steam generators deliver a powerful, efficient, and safe cleaning solution for even the most demanding environments.

Low-Pressure Steam Cleaning

REA steam cleaning operates at a nozzle pressure of only 145PSI, significantly lower than traditional high-pressure washing systems that typically exceed 1000PSI.

This lower pressure provides several key advantages:

  • Safe for sensitive components – Steam can be applied directly to surfaces, including bearings, seals, motors, sensors, and electronics, without risk of damage.

  • No masking or disassembly required – Equipment can be cleaned in place, saving time and reducing downtime.

  • Cleaner process – Minimal transmission of dirt and moisture prevents contamination from spreading to other equipment or surrounding areas.

  • Operator safety – Reduced pressure eliminates the hazards associated with high-pressure washing.

With low-pressure steam cleaning, you gain safe, efficient, and precise cleaning power that protects both your equipment and your staff.

Steam Cleaning with Detergent Capability

All REA Steam Cleaning generators offer the option of using detergents or degreasers in combination with steam, providing even greater cleaning power when required.

Key features and advantages include:

  • Flexible operation – Water and detergents can be added in parallel with the steam flow.

  • Digital handle control – Operators can easily adjust the addition of water or chemicals during cleaning.

  • Faster cleaning – Water helps loosen and carry away dirt more quickly, reducing cleaning time (with only a slight increase in water usage).

  • Enhanced results – Detergents and degreasers improve cleaning effectiveness, while the heat of the steam acts as a catalyst, reducing the amount of chemicals needed and saving costs.

  • Special treatments – Chemical additives can be introduced to retard oxidation or meet specific surface cleanliness requirements.

This versatility ensures that REA steam generators deliver maximum cleaning efficiency, while maintaining the benefits of reduced chemical and water consumption.

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