Industrial Hot Water Systems in the Six Stages of Industrial Laundry Operations
Industrial laundry services are employed by large institutions such as hospitals, hotels, and prisons. With the constant need for clean linen and clothing, it’s no wonder these facilities depend on industrial hot water systems that use direct contact water heaters. Discussed below are the six stages involved in industrial laundry operations.
Soiled Retrieval
This step involves collecting the soiled items to be laundered, placing them in a collection point such as a laundry chute. Upon collection, these items will be placed in carts and transported to the laundry facility. Laundry personnel are typically required to practice safety precautions and use protective gear; this is due to the possible contamination in the soiled items, particularly in hospitals.
Soil Sorting
After the retrieval of the soiled items, they will then be unloaded and sorted based on the type of item. Not only will sorting make it easier to identify items and re-distribute them after the laundry process, but it also makes it easier for the laundry personnel to perform the necessary laundry procedures. For instance, hospital linen requires intensive washing as compared with hotel curtains or tablecloths. Removing blood or feces stains may need stronger formulas and require the use of industrial hot water systems.
Washing
This is a crucial stage in industrial laundry operations. The items sorted are then weighed and washed based on the washing machine load limit. Large washing machines are used in this step, along with a special detergent to thoroughly clean the soiled items. The use of hot water makes it far easier to intensely clean the soiled items, especially with the help of boilers that utilize heat reclaimer systems.
Processing
After washing, the items are dried, ironed and folded. Industrial laundry facilities utilize dryers that use hot air and mechanical action for moisture evaporation. Along with these, irons equipped with heavy steam-heated rollers are used to dry and press these items. The processing is capped by the use of mechanical folders.
Packaging and Distribution
Upon drying, ironing, and folding, items are then prepared for delivery. This is done through a filing method that states the information of each customer or department. The packaged items are delivered to the main distribution points and storage areas. This final step involves transporting the clean items to the customers. In hotels, distribution is done per department-food and beverage department, rooms division, and housekeeping, among others. This step requires an organized system and skilled personnel.
These six stages in industrial laundry services employ various techniques for speedy and effective laundry processes. The use of direct contact water heaters, mechanical folders, and organized distribution systems all contribute to the efficient operation of industrial laundry facilities.