Technological evolution in the coffee machine sector has led to the introduction of innovative elements in the configuration of espresso dispensing devices for both the domestic and professional segments. The research and proposal of new components starts with understanding the needs of the industry and the specific market. In this sense, the recent focus on the themes of sanitisation and purification has contributed to the introduction of new functions within the coffee machine, which could increase its performance and provide a qualitatively better drink.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at the importance of sanitising the water tank of coffee machines with a concrete example from the collaboration between SLIM and Quick Mill.
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Sanitising and disinfecting water enables the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms contained in it, agents that are potentially harmful to the health of those who drink it. One of the most innovative features introduced into coffee machines concerns the sanitisation of the water contained in the device's tank. Introducing the process of sanitising the tanks of coffee machines, which are not connected to the water mains, allows the water to be kept in excellent condition over time before the drink is dispensed. Among the latest and most effective methods is sanitising with UVC LEDs.
Water sanitisation with UVC rays is carried out using LED modules with a compact and robust design, which can be positioned at the top of the container to emit UVC radiation that can effectively reduce microorganisms that are harmful to human health. The sanitisation process using UVC rays, with a wavelength between 270 and 280 nanometres, acts directly on the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, altering their genetic material and compromising their reproductive capacity.
UVC LED technology for water sanitisation has several advantages: UVC LED modules can be switched on and off frequently without being damaged, require a low power supply and are more energy efficient than mercury UVC lamps. In addition, the use of UVC LEDs avoids the use of chemicals that could alter the quality of the drink.
Incorporating such a solution inside coffee machines for domestic or professional use guarantees germicidal effectiveness on water, which will then be heated in the coffee preparation process.
In the professional and domestic coffee machine segment, every stakeholder is looking for a high-performance machine that makes it easier for the operator to achieve the best result "in the cup".
It was precisely from these considerations that the request for collaboration with Quick Mill Srl, a historic Italian company specialising in the production of domestic and professional coffee machines, began and developed. Quick Mill approached us at SLIM to develop a device for sanitising the water tank of their range of coffee machines. The close collaboration between the technical departments resulted in a UVC LED module, with a plastic holder, suitable to be positioned above the water tank to activate water sterilisation cycles. Laboratory tests carried out by Pro Lab service S.r.l. confirmed the sanitising power of the proposed solution.
There are no standard UVC LED modules suitable for every application.
When a customised sanitising solution is requested, simulations must necessarily be carried out that reproduce the actual use that will be made of the device, to assess its actual effectiveness and laboratory tests that certify the sanitising effectiveness of the solution.
At SLIM, we collaborate with various coffee machine manufacturers to create customised sanitising solutions and not only that, according to specific requirements. Each request will then require a meeting with our technical department for the definition, evaluation and feasibility study of such specific technologies.
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