What is “washdown duty” and why should I want to have it?
What is “washdown duty” and why should I want to have it?
“Washdown Duty” is a term used primarily by the electric motor and power transmission industry to indicate that a machine is designed for a high level of protection against the effects of water. These motors and other equipment were created to meet the needs of the baking and food processing industries where it is necessary to often (daily) clean with hot high-pressure water often containing strong cleaning products.
There is no single engineering standard that defines “washdown duty”. Depending upon the type of equipment, where it is used, and what authority has jurisdiction; washdown duty is often equivalent to NEMA 4 or 4X (standard for electrical enclosures) or the international enclosure standard (Ingress Protection) IP67 or IP69. All these standards provide protection against the entry of dust and material as well as protection against jets of water being applied to the outside of the unit.
Not all “washdown duty” equipment is the same! Some washdown duty motors are standard motors that have added sealing features plus a very high-quality coating (usually white) that provides protection against the effects of being sprayed with water. At the other end of the scale are Stainless Steel Washdown Duty equipment where the entire exterior is made of stainless steel (often polished for easy cleaning) and these units are impervious to humidity and totally enclosed against dust. The very best are designed with radiused corners where possible so that there are not cracks or crevasses that can trap dirt.
Why do you want to have Washdown Duty Equipment in a grow operation? Simply because it will last and give you the ability to thoroughly clean the units should you ever suffer an attack of one of the nasty pests that can damage / destroy a crop. air circulators are Stainless Steel and are baking industry approved so they have the polished crevasse free surfaces that will make cleaning simple. They are also warranted for 10 years so you know that they will last.
Contact aGROair sales representative and talk with them about your space and what is recommended.
www.aGROair.com / [email protected] / 517-449-7602