Why Washdown Conveyors Matter in Food Processing.

Chicago Metalcraft designs its equipment so every conveyor is capable of washdown. Their Washdown Conveyors are built using stainless steel. Belts are chosen for durability and easy cleaning, frequently endless urethane belts that resist cracking, absorb minimal moisture, and are compatible with USDA assembly requirements. Casters, locks, and easy disassembly further enable sanitation crews to access all parts; in some designs, motors and gearboxes are specified to be washdown‐rated so that even drive components can be cleaned without risk of damage. For plants following USDA or similar regulations, a washdown conveyor isn’t just a feature—it’s required for compliance, and Chicago Metalcraft’s portfolio meets those needs in layouts including belt top conveyors, automation conveyors, gravity roller lines, and more.

Hygienic Modular Conveyors: Flexibility Meets Clean Design

Hygienic modular conveyors offer a balance between operational flexibility and stringent sanitary requirements. Chicago Metalcraft offers modular plastic chain conveyors that integrate plastic chain belts over stainless steel beams. These systems allow modular replacements or adjustments, enabling processors to adapt the line to different products or throughput volumes without sacrificing hygiene. The design of these modular conveyors is meant to reduce harborage points—places where food particles or moisture might accumulate. Parts are designed to be easily disassembled and reassembled for cleaning, with minimal tools or effort. Stainless steel frame construction, fully welded where possible, ensures smooth surfaces; components like transfer chutes, side guards, supports, and stands are all built with hygienic design in mind. Adjustable locking casters and quick‑ship options make these conveyors not only sanitary but also responsive to changing production layouts or urgent capacity needs.

Product Examples That Blend Washdown and Modular Hygiene

Chicago Metalcraft’s Belt Top Production Conveyor is a good example of washdown and hygienic modular design in tandem. It uses an endless urethane belt, stainless steel washable components, easy disassembly, and meets USDA assembly line standards. Its dimensions (up to 16‑inch belt width, 22 feet long, casters included) make it ideal for operations building products directly on the belt.

For smaller or variable product types, the Modular Plastic Chain Conveyor delivers excellent hygiene with modular chain belts over steel frames. It is flexible, easily assembled and disassembled, and cleanable, making it suited to handling different types of product without extensive downtime.

Other lines like the Automation Conveyor and Z Elevator Conveyor similarly ensure full washdown capacity, welded stainless steel frames, and hygienic belt materials.

Getting the Most Out of Your Conveyor Line

To maximize the benefits of washdown conveyors and Hygienic Modular Conveyors, facility operators should plan for regular cleaning, proper drainage, and ensuring that conveyor belt materials are compatible with frequent wet cleaning. Design layout should avoid blind corners or underside cavities that are hard to reach. Selecting components like washdown‑rated motors and gearboxes, finishing treatments that resist corrosion, and belts that do not absorb moisture all help maintain hygiene and reduce maintenance.