Industrial Crate, Returnable Packaging and Parts Washers
FORCHEM industrial washing equipment
Crate, Returnable Packaging and Parts Washers
Our tunnel and cabinet washers for crates and parts are designed for efficient cleaning of plastic crates, boxes, containers and components in butcheries, dairies, food processing and manufacturing. Hygienic AISI 304 stainless steel, precise nozzles and optimized cycles ensure consistent wash quality with low media consumption.
For KLT containers and other returnable industrial packaging, washing solutions are matched to dimensions and handling requirements. Pallets, trays and blister inserts require a separate feasibility assessment based on their material, geometry and cleanliness criteria. Send us your requirements.
In the FORCHEM portfolio you’ll find solutions from compact cabinet units to modular tunnel washers for continuous lines. We adapt each machine to the soil type, crate dimensions and line speed so you hit the required throughput without downtime.
Every project is a tailor-made solution – from pressure and flow settings through zone configuration (pre-wash, wash, rinse, drying) to cabinet washers for variable parts. The goal is long-term reliable operation at low cost.
Top performance is driven by high-performance pumps, precisely positioned nozzles, multi-stage filtration and a robust stainless construction. Optional modules such as drying and automated loading reduce handling and improve hygiene.
Easy operation, quick maintenance and long service life are why FORCHEM machines run reliably in hundreds of plants across Europe – from family businesses to market leaders.
- AISI 304 stainless steel and hygienic design
- Precise nozzles, low water and chemical consumption
- Modular zones: pre-wash, wash, rinse, drying
- Optional drying and in-line integration
How to choose industrial washing equipment
Which industrial washing system fits your process? Machine size and nominal items-per-hour capacity are only part of the decision. The item's geometry and material, type of contamination, handling method and target cleanliness all influence the equipment design.
What details help us prepare a technical proposal?
- Item type and dimensions: crate, KLT container, industrial part or other returnable packaging; outer dimensions, material, photos or a sample.
- Contamination and cleaning target: what must be removed, whether recesses are hard to reach, and whether rinsing or drying is required.
- Throughput and operating pattern: items per hour or shift, continuous flow or batches.
- Handling and integration: manual, conveyor or robotic loading, available floor space and utility connections.
For repetitive, higher-volume crate washing, a tunnel washer may be a suitable starting point. With varied parts and smaller batches, a cabinet washer is also worth evaluating. The final configuration depends on the specific application.
Next step: send us dimensions, photos and required throughput so we can start a technical assessment.
Returnable packaging washing by type
KLT container washing equipment
KLT and E-KLT containers carry parts between production, storage and suppliers. System design considers container dimensions, ribs, drainage and handling on the line.
Explore tunnel washers or share a sample and your required hourly throughput.
Industrial pallet washing assessment
Pallet cleaning depends on dimensions, plastic or other materials, cavities and contamination. Before recommending a washer, we must check material compatibility, holding method and cleanliness requirements.
Send pallet dimensions, photos or drawings for assessment.
Industrial tray washing options
Industrial trays, carriers and inserts need suitable orientation, spray access and careful handling. Material and intended use determine the appropriate method.
We assess a sample and operational requirements before proposing a tray washing system.
Blister and formed insert washing
Formed blisters and reusable inserts may trap water or contaminants in recesses. Material, geometry and required cleanliness must be assessed before selecting a process.
A blister washer is also mentioned in the Logicon case article; suitability for your packaging is assessed separately.
Our Motto: “5× PRO Washers”
We’re inspired by proven industrial methods from high-volume manufacturing. The result is our “5× PRO” approach, delivering stable wash quality, high throughput, and low operating costs.
- PRO – FMEA – Prevent defects already in design and process setup. Handover includes configuration to the customer’s operation, backed by our long-standing practical experience.
- PRO – LEAN – Maximum performance without waste. Our washers clean and dry fast, and easy changeover helps maintain a high line takt.
- PRO – SMED – Rapid product changeover. The design supports faster changeover between part sizes and helps reduce downtime during production changes.
- PRO – TPM – Low downtime and simple maintenance. Accessible assemblies and preventive care help reduce the risk of faults and unplanned downtime.
- PRO – CBA – Costs under control. Energy-efficient components (e.g., water heating with a Panasonic heat pump) meet strict environmental standards and reduce operating expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many crates can a tunnel washer clean per hour?
We match capacity to your line speed and soil type. Typically dozens to hundreds of pcs/hour.
What drying options do you offer?
Optional drying: standard convection drying (fans/heating) and compressed-air drying (“air-knife”) connected to an industrial compressor — fast water blow-off from edges and ribs.
What crate sizes do you support?
Standard E-KLT/Euro crates as well as custom sizes; we tailor the tunnel and baskets to fit.
Can KLT containers be washed?
Yes. Standard E-KLT/Euro containers are already included among the supported types. We check dimensions, handling and required throughput for the specific application.
What about pallets, industrial trays and blister inserts?
Feasibility depends on material, size and contamination. These applications are not universally guaranteed; we assess the requirements using a sample or technical documentation. Send an enquiry.


