The unstoppable digital transformation also demands new solutions for process automation in cleaning technology. This is why cleaning equipment manufacturer Nilfisk is now presenting the latest digital generation of its central vacuum systems. Among other things, the new development focuses on complete networking with the existing production environment. The use of innovative IoT technologies enables highly integrated communication and control of the suction system and production machine.

Thanks to this digitalization leap, soiling of all kinds can not only be managed more efficiently. Users also have completely new options for monitoring and optimizing their suction system in a more targeted manner. Certifications also guarantee a high level of safety. Another development focus was on a highly modular design, which allows the suction systems to be adapted to the conditions in the respective production area - for customized suction performance and filtration as well as coordinated processes with regard to collection and recovery.

Central suction unit

With the help of Nilfisk's centralized industrial vacuum systems, the strictest guidelines and regulations regarding containment and safety can be easily met. Even large production facilities spread over several floors can be cleaned quickly without having to intervene in ongoing operations. The central suction unit sucks up soiling, cutting waste and the like throughout the building and then collects it in a large silo. Raw materials can then be safely disposed of or recovered there. Depending on the situation, pre-separators for liquids, large quantities of dirt or hot materials are also available to guarantee efficient cleaning at all times. Both the suction unit and the silo or the associated filter chamber can be installed either inside or outside the building. Pipes run from here to the individual production machines and other areas that require regular cleaning.

Digitization

The seamless integration of the suction systems into the process machines and the automated interaction between the production and suction systems ensure smooth production processes. Industry 4.0 technologies and a multilingual MMI touch control (MMI: Man-Machine Interface) allow web-based and convenient real-time system monitoring via PC or smartphone for the first time. Location-independent data access for current performance queries as well as individual performance adjustments or troubleshooting are possible at any time and from anywhere.

Modular design, intuitive operation

To ensure that the vacuum systems meet the different production environments and process requirements of the users, Nilfisk relies on a consistently modular design and a high degree of customization for its new generation. Depending on the requirements, Nilfisk consultants work with the customer to develop the perfect solution and flexibly combine the respective components. This includes, for example, the required power of the suction unit and the type of system control as well as different filters and cleaning methods or the material of the piping and the choice between continuous and discontinuous discharge into different containers.

Certified security

Finally, the central extraction systems not only increase sustainability, but also considerably improve safety in production. In addition to protection against hazardous dusts, fire and explosion protection is particularly important here. All system modules are therefore also available with ATEX certification for use in potentially explosive atmospheres or environments classified as Zone 22 - for example in large bakeries or wood processing plants. They fit seamlessly into Nilfisk's strict certification approach, according to which conformity with all regulations and protocols has been checked and certified by external, government-supervised test centers.