Fluoropolymer coatings are a standard for food processing equipment for several reasons. Our guide will take you through the fluoropolymer coatings we use, why they work for food processing equipment, and where you will find these coatings as you look to make your processes work as efficiently as possible.
The Fluoropolymer Coatings We Use at Coating Systems
Fluoropolymer
Fluoropolymer coats resist corrosion, stand up well to acids, insulate effectively, and create a non-stick surface for your food processing device.
PTFE
If you want cookware that withstands extremely high temperatures and offers a non-stick surface, you may want to go with PTFE fluoropolymer coatings. They can handle the highest temperatures of all fluoropolymers.
PFA
Similar to PTFE, PFA offers a very resistant surface that doesn’t stick. It can withstand high temperatures as well, making it perfect for cooking and food processing.
DuPont Silverstone
With a more durable finish than DuPont’s well-known Teflon, Silverstone acts as a fantastic non-stick surface on griddles, bakery pans, kettles, mixers, and other high-heat cookware.
Unique Properties of Fluoropolymer Coatings Make Them Ideal for Food Processing
Fluoropolymers work by replacing hydrogen atoms in a hydrocarbon chain with fluorine atoms. This substitution alters the chemistry of the substance by making the coating inert and keeping it less reactive with its surrounding environment.
These properties include:
- Non-stick
- Chemically inert
- High-temperature resistance
- Low friction
- Electrical insulation
- Biocompatibility
Where Will You Find Fluoropolymer Coatings on Food Processing Equipment?
Fluoropolymer coatings work very well on a wide range of food processing equipment and ordinary kitchen appliances and tools, too.
Non-Stick Coatings
Fluoropolymers are often used as non-stick coatings on baking pans, grills, frying pans, and other food processing equipment. This functionality prevents food from sticking to the surface, which reduces waste and makes cleaning your equipment easier.
Linings for Vessels, Piping, Pumps & Valves
Fluoropolymer coatings provide a durable lining for metal vessels, piping, pumps, and valves to protect them from corrosion and chemical intrusions. You’ll help ensure the safety and quality of food products as well as make the equipment last longer.
Gaskets & Seals
One widespread usage of fluoropolymer coatings comes from making gaskets and seals for food processing equipment. Gaskets and seals help to prevent leakage and contamination.
Conveyor Belts & Rollers
Fluoropolymers can coat conveyor belts and rollers to prevent food from sticking. Coatings on conveyor belts improve the efficiency of food processing operations from one end of the line to the other.
Food Packaging
Fluoropolymers can be used to make food packaging materials that have excellent barrier properties against moisture, oxygen, and other contaminants. These coatings can extend the shelf life of food products and maintain their quality.
Benefits of Using Fluoropolymers in Food Processing
Fluoropolymers offer several benefits for food processing equipment and facilities.
Improved Food Safety
Fluoropolymers are non-stick and chemically inert, which helps to prevent food contamination. Additionally, fluoropolymers are resistant to bacterial and fungal growth because not much, if anything, sticks to the surfaces as residue.
Reduced Waste
Fluoropolymers help to reduce food waste by preventing food from sticking to surfaces on your equipment. This benefit is significant for foods that are delicate or difficult to handle, including deep-fried or baked foods that go from cooking to packaging with minimal handling by humans.
Increased Efficiency
Fluoropolymer coatings can help improve the efficiency of food processing operations by reducing the time needed for cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, fluoropolymers can help to increase the speed of food processing operations.
Extended Shelf Life
Fluoropolymers can be used to make food packaging materials that have excellent barrier properties. This barrier helps extend food products’ shelf life and maintain their quality.
Safety of Fluoropolymers for Food Processing
Fluoropolymers are generally considered to be safe for use in food processing. However, it is essential to note that some fluoropolymers can release harmful fumes if overheated. Therefore, following instructions when using fluoropolymers in food processing applications is necessary. Another important note is that fluoropolymer coatings should only be applied by professional companies with experience handling industrial coatings.
Additional Information About Fluoropolymer Coatings for Food Processing Equipment
Fluoropolymer coatings are typically more expensive than other materials, but their durability and performance make them a cost-effective choice for many food processing applications.
Most fluoropolymers can be cleaned with mild soap and water, making them easy to maintain.
Fluoropolymers resist a wide range of chemicals, but strong acids and bases can damage them.
Fluoropolymers are flammable when exposed to direct flame at a high enough temperature, but they are self-extinguishing. These coatings will stop burning on their own if the source of the flame is removed.
Examples of Use Cases for Fluoropolymers in Food Processing
Here are a few examples of how fluoropolymers are being used in the food processing industry:
A food processing company uses PTFE-coated baking pans to bake cookies. The PTFE coating prevents the cookies from sticking to the pans, which reduces waste and makes cleaning easier.
A beverage company uses PFA-lined piping to transport fruit juice. The PFA lining protects the piping from corrosion and deterioration because fruit juice can have acidic properties.
Who Can Apply Fluoropolymer Coatings to My Industrial Equipment?
Coating Systems has decades of experience with fluoropolymer coatings, and we can apply these high-quality coatings to your industrial food processing equipment if it is ideal for you. Contact us or call (513) 367-5600 for more information.
