Blast machines prove cereal success

Hodge Clemco has sold two specially adapted IBIX blast machines to Kellogg's in Manchester to help with maintenance of its cornflake ovens.

Each oven typically toasts 1t of cereal an hour at about 300°C. Ovens are shut for maintenance every four weeks. Part of the procedure involves deep-cleaning the inside of the ovens, which are 8m long x 2m high, to remove residue and small particles.

The IBIX machines are easier to use than Kellogg's previous method, and the sodium bicarbonate abrasive automatically flashes off when the ovens are heated. Compact and light weight, the machines are easily moved into position. Blast and air control hoses are light and convenient, and air pressure can be adjusted from 0.2 to 7 bar to control abrasive output.

Cleaning each oven now takes 45min, half the time previously taken.