Tunnel washers for crates, KLT containers and parts
FORCHEM industrial tunnel washing systems
How tunnel washing works and how process zones are configured
FORCHEM tunnel washers are designed for repeated, continuous cleaning of crates, returnable packaging and, with a suitable configuration, production parts. Items travel through the machine on a conveyor and are exposed to spray nozzles. The result depends on the contamination, contact time, washing medium and access to the surfaces being cleaned.
Washing, rinsing and optional process zones
Depending on the application, the system may include pre-washing, main washing, rinsing and additional stages such as passivation for selected components. Drying is not fitted to every machine; its suitability depends on downstream use and acceptable residual moisture.
- Positioning and transport: item orientation and conveyor handling must allow spray access and drainage.
- Washing parameters: temperature, pressure, flow and cleaning chemistry are selected for the material and contamination.
- Line throughput: conveyor speed, spacing and cleanliness requirements all affect the achievable number of items per hour.
- Optional equipment: filtration, heating, drying, return conveyors and automated feeding depend on the model and specification.
Our industrial washing equipment range covers different manufacturing and logistics applications. Tunnel systems serve a continuous flow of items, whereas drum washers are a separate type of system for bulk cleaning of small components.
Before selecting a machine, please provide the dimensions, photos and material of the items, the contamination type and required throughput. Send us your technical requirements for an application-specific assessment.
KLT containers and industrial returnable packaging
KLT containers and returnable packaging in tunnel systems
Washing KLT containers in a tunnel system is particularly relevant when the same or similar returnable containers circulate repeatedly. The washer still needs to suit the actual KLT type: external dimensions are only part of the assessment, alongside ribs, recessed surfaces, the base and drainage.
How do we specify a KLT washing application?
- Dimensions and geometry: we review height, width, length, openings, reinforcements and suitable orientation during washing.
- Contamination and target cleanliness: dust, oil and production residues may require different contact times, temperatures or detergents; demanding applications may need a washing trial.
- Handling: we assess manual or automated loading, reliable crate guidance and, if necessary, a return conveyor.
- Rinsing, drainage and drying: water may remain in ribs and recesses; optional drying must be evaluated against the desired result.
- Throughput: items per hour are determined for the actual container and cleanliness requirement, not simply from a model name.
What does a throughput of 150 items per hour mean?
The technical data for the FORCHEM MP 150 state a theoretical throughput of 150 items/hour. This figure relates to that model; it is not a guarantee for every KLT size or contamination level. Achievable throughput is verified against the item and the proposed washing process.
Selected machines are described for containers measuring 600 × 400 mm, but the suitability of any specific KLT type must be checked. Different materials, pallets, trays or blister inserts may require other handling and washing arrangements.
Need a KLT washer proposal? Send dimensions, photos, contamination details and your required hourly or shift throughput so we can assess a suitable tunnel system and possible options.
Products
FORCHEM continuous washing systems: the MP 150 is a base crate-washing model; the MP 150 with return conveyor supports a different handling layout. The MP 150S and MP 150 2S include drying modules.
The TM 600-2B is a multi-zone continuous washer for industrial components. By contrast, the DM 40-250-1B is a drum washer for small parts, not a KLT container washer. Suitability must be established for the intended application.
