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Constant cleaning, dust and an aggressive climate push materials to their limits. A&L Tierfrischmehl Produktions GmbH from Diepholz also has to contend with this time and again. Its complex and extensive evaporation plant is driven by a large number of motors and turbines. As such systems have to be repaired or at least maintained time and again, the installation of repair switches in the individual sections is essential. This allows sections to be disconnected from the power supply and made safely accessible. Unfortunately, however, the switches responsible for this have so far failed far too quickly.

“For one thing, we have to constantly go over it with the water hose. Secondly, aggressive vapors are also produced during cleaning, which our previously installed repair switches simply couldn't withstand. The plastic housings broke or the foam seals became crumbly and we had to replace them every few months. That costs money, time and nerves, explains Torsten Bünker-Apetz, master electrician in the repair and maintenance department at A&L. However, as the hygiene regulations in the food industry are very strict, it is also necessary to clean the external areas – where the switches are located – thoroughly.

Switching to the repair switches in stainless steel housings from Kraus & Naimer

Over a year ago, A&L therefore began switching to the repair switches in stainless steel housings from Kraus & Naimer. “As soon as we got our hands on one of these devices for the first time, it was clear that this was something completely different. Robust stainless steel, sturdy switch and the blue food seal – the first impression was very promising,” recalls the head of department.

In the meantime, the last switches have also been replaced and are coping very well with the extreme conditions. The company can hardly afford any downtime. Whether chicken nuggets, pies or grilled chicken – everything that is left over from the production of chicken parts rolls into the yard at A&L every day and is immediately processed into flour for animal feed production.

“Water jets, aggressive dusts or cleaning agents and solvents often demand a lot from the components. Mechanical impact can also be problematic. Fortunately, the stainless steel housings are designed for an impact resistance of IK08,” continues Neufeld.

Kraus & Naimer's product range has a lot more to offer: from the smallest cam switches and main switches of all kinds to switch-disconnectors for the photovoltaic sector and ATEX Maintenance Switches for Zone 21/22 – Kraus & Naimer not only develops and builds off-the-shelf products, but also completely customized switching solutions with all kinds of additional equipment – including personal expert advice, of course.