Tunnel type dishwasher

A tunnel dishwasher is an industrial unit that can clean a huge load of dishes in a short period of time. While it may not look anything like a typical household dishwasher, it's true that tunnel dishwashers aren't used in homes. In this article, we'll discuss the design, applications, and features of these dishwashers. We'll also provide a brief overview of tunnel dishwashers, which may help you choose one if you're considering purchasing one.

Features and applications of the machine

A tunnel dishwasher gets its name from its design and overall appearance. While conventional home dishwashers are shaped like a small rectangular drawer, tunnel dishwashers resemble a combination of a conveyor belt and a tunnel. Moreover, the dimensions of the unit are also impressive: the cabinet alone can occupy 15 square meters or more.

The tunnel dishwasher is rightly considered the most productive, as it can wash up to 8,000 items in just 1 hour.

During the washing process, dirty dishes are placed in special trays, which are then placed on a conveyor belt where they move through a tunnel, where they are treated with dishwashing liquid and hot water, and then dried. At the exit, we receive trays containing completely dry and clean dishes. Dishwashing occurs very quickly, so a tunnel dishwasher processes a large volume of dishes, ensuring high throughput.

It is clear that there is no point in installing a tunnel dishwasher at home or in small businesses. Even relatively large cafes and bars prefer to limit themselves to hood-type dishwashers. However, in some cases, such a machine is indispensable. A tunnel-type dishwasher is useful:

• in large public catering establishments;
• in large hotels;
• in kindergartens, schools, higher education institutions and institutions of additional education with a large number of students, etc.

Components

What parts does this behemoth consist of? What allows it to wash mountains of dishes so quickly and efficiently? A tunnel dishwasher has three zones: the wash zone, the rinse zone, and the drying zone.

1. The washing area is a special, fairly spacious bin containing several powerful hot water nozzles. The water heats up to 55°C.⁰C. When the nozzles spray water under pressure, dousing the dishes, the nozzles that supply the detergent are activated, which ensures high-quality washing.

For dishwashers of this type, special detergents should be used.

2. Rinse zone. Next, the tray full of dishes enters the rinse zone, where a tremendous stream of extremely hot water washes away the detergent along with any remaining dirt. After this "execution," the dishes are crystal clear.
3. Drying compartment. Next, wet dishes enter a chamber containing several powerful fan heaters that supply hot air. Under the flow of hot air, an entire tray of dishes dries in a matter of minutes, if not seconds, and the next tray follows.

A large number of sensors on the units and assemblies ensure the proper functioning of the above-mentioned zones. For example, door position monitoring sensors, a wash pump activation sensor, rinse activation sensors, conveyor blockage sensors, a wash pump, a conveyor motor, etc.

Model overview

Today's market offers a huge variety of tunnel dishwashers with a wide range of features. Prices vary widely, too, making it difficult to find reliable information about these appliances. How can you make the right choice? After all, this equipment is used for business purposes, so any wrong decision will result in losses. Our experts have reviewed the current market offerings and compiled a review of the best appliances. All you have to do is review this information and draw your own conclusions.

The Apach ARC100 is one of the best tunnel dishwashers, made from high-strength materials and capable of processing up to 100 baskets (500 x 500 mm) per hour. Despite its relatively low throughput, this machine takes up little space, making it easily suitable for most mid-sized food service establishments. A unique feature of this model is its seamless sink, manufactured without welding. This ensures a service life of 10-15 years longer than comparable models. Dimensions are 1150 x 770 x 1565 mm, and it weighs 220 kg. The average price is around $7,500. Hurry, buy one; this model has been discontinued. The new generation of the Apach is less reliable, has more bells and whistles, and is considerably more expensive.

The AVAT MPT-1700 is the best tunnel dishwasher in Russia. Its price is much more attractive, just $5,700, and its performance surpasses many foreign equivalents. In one hour, the dishwasher can wash 1,710 plates up to 400 mm in diameter, which is average. However, business owners often require tunnel dishwashers with medium performance. The wash temperature ranges from 40°C.⁰C, rinsing temperature from 85⁰Dimensions: 1595 x 770 x 1695 mm, weight: 230 kg. Distinguishing features: rounded corners for easy cleaning, metal spray arms, and stainless steel hoses.

Elframo ETS 15. A good Italian tunnel dishwasher with medium capacity. It can wash 75 baskets in 1 hour. Each basket measures 500 x 430 mm. The overall dimensions are 2370 x 698 x 1570 mm. Features include digital boiler temperature control, a dual-direction conveyor belt, and a wash basin with rounded corners. The only drawbacks are the high water consumption and the high cost of about $9,000. Otherwise, the model is very decent.

The OZTI OBK 1500 is a Turkish tunnel dishwasher with a mid-range capacity. It washes 100 racks per hour or 1,650 plates per hour, depending on your preferred calculation. The racks are standard 500x500 mm, and the wash tank holds 90 liters. The dimensions are 2050x850x1880 mm, and it weighs 270 kg. It costs around $5,700, which is quite reasonable. It's made of high-quality materials and is quite economical to operate.

OZTI OBK 1500 is noisier than Italian equipment, but quieter than Russian equipment.

The Krupps Evolution ES65 is another example of Italian technology. Italy produces quite a few good rack dishwashers, so it's no surprise they're featured prominently in our review. This machine washes up to 100 baskets per hour, each measuring 500x500 mm. It uses 220 liters of water per hour, which is generally acceptable. Its dimensions are 1740x790x2200 mm, and it weighs a hefty 325 kg. Its distinctive feature is a water hardness sensor. The price is quite high at $10,700, but remember, you're paying for impeccable quality, and that's worth something!

Professional and industrial dishwashers There are more than just tunnel-type ones. If you're interested in the details, read the article of the same name on our website. We conclude our story with the assurance that you'll weigh everything a thousand times before purchasing such equipment. After all, there's so much to consider before making a purchase. Good luck!

   

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