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Alfa Laval has launched Clariot, an advanced AI-based condition monitoring solution designed specifically for hygienic process equipment, aimed at improving operational efficiency within the food and beverage sector. This system is expected to provide manufacturers with critical insights that enhance equipment uptime and optimise resource usage.

The Clariot system is built upon Alfa Laval's extensive experience with over 3,000 existing condition monitoring units deployed globally. The new solution integrates upgraded hardware and software to facilitate a comprehensive digital connection tailored for demanding hygienic environments.

Unplanned downtime remains a significant concern for manufacturers, often resulting in substantial financial losses due to idle production lines, wasted resources and potential damage to equipment.

As Torsten Pedersen, commercial head of condition monitoring at Alfa Laval Fluid Handling, commented: "In a world where every drop and every man-hour count, our customers increasingly seek solutions that improve uptime and productivity while reducing resource waste". Clariot aims to mitigate these issues by providing continuous monitoring and diagnostics for pumps and other rotating equipment, such as agitators.

The solution is designed to proactively identify potential machine failures before they occur, thereby maximising performance and extending the lifespan of critical equipment. This capability is particularly vital for operations in hygienic industries, where maintaining consistent production is essential.

Clariot represents a significant advancement in Alfa Laval's digitalisation strategy, aligning with the industry's shift towards predictive maintenance. Leveraging sensor data and AI-driven insights, the system aims to transform how manufacturers approach equipment maintenance.

Pedersen highlighted the importance of this shift, noting: "Predictive maintenance is the future of manufacturing, enabled by sensor data, AI-driven insights and digital connectivity".

The Clariot system operates independently from internal business-critical systems, ensuring maximum cybersecurity while remaining compatible with most pump brands. Its user-friendly interface and straightforward installation process make it accessible for various manufacturing environments.

The financial implications of unplanned downtime are significant; for instance, a set-up with 50 pumps could incur annual losses of up to €80,000 from just one unplanned stop per quarter. In contrast, Clariot is positioned as a cost-effective solution, with a payback period that is notably short.

To support decision-makers in the food and beverage sector, Alfa Laval has also released a comprehensive Buyer’s Guide for condition monitoring in hygienic industries. This guide offers detailed insights into maintenance strategies, solution selection and implementation, reinforcing the importance of informed decision-making in the adoption of new technologies.