Previously, the importance of stainless steel wire cloth and wire cloth mesh in the aerospace, automotive, medical, pharmaceutical and food processing industries was discussed. These broad categories represent just a few examples of how extensively wire cloth mesh is used in a wide range of applications. In each case, wire cloth is important for product safety, quality and consistency.
Like all equipment, stainless steel wire cloth and mesh must be maintained and cleaned. This is important for product throughput, system sanitation and protecting the wire’s maximum resistance to corrosion. Failure to maintain the integrity and cleanliness of wire cloth mesh may lead to quality, production, regulatory and health issues.
There are several other factors that drive the requirement for regular wire cleaning. More specifically these include:
Stainless steel is strong but not indestructible. It is protected by a thin layer of chromium oxide and contamination reduces this protection over time. Different conditions like high heat, humidity or corrosive chemical exposure may result in surface discoloration and actual wire breakdown over time. These types of conditions often require more frequent inspections and maintenance.
In most applications, it is best to remove the wire mesh, wire cloth or test sieve for the most effective wire cleaning. This is where the advantage of dual filter lines is readily apparent since product flow is redirected to a second line while the first line is cleaned. Mesh should be cleaned horizontally with nylon or brass wire bristles. In general and based on the application, stainless steel wire cloth and mesh are best cleaned with the following methods.
Although cleaning wire mesh is important to production system health, not ruining it in the process is equally critical. These are just a few of the methods and materials that should not be used during the care and maintenance of stainless steel wire mesh.
Stainless steel wire cloth and mesh plays a critical role across many industries but must be cleaned and maintained like any other piece of critical equipment.
Newark Wire Cloth is a recognized leader in the wire cloth manufacturing industry, creating off-the-shelf and custom woven wire cloth for any and every application. It has specialized in the fabrication of wire cloth parts and assemblies for the past 105 years. Give us a call and contact us today to discuss how wire cloth can help improve the quality and efficiency of your next filtration project or application. We hope that this article answered your question of how do I clean wire cloth mesh.