When it comes to cleaning tanks, vessels, and reactors, spray nozzles are often the unsung heroes. They ensure proper cleaning, reduce downtime, and help facilities meet strict hygiene and safety standards. However, not all nozzles are created equal, and misunderstandings about their performance can lead to inefficiencies, wasted resources, and costly mistakes.

At Lechler, Inc., we often hear similar misconceptions from customers before they switch to engineered tank cleaning solutions. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths.

Reality: Not all spray nozzles are designed for tank cleaning. Standard spray nozzles may wet the surface but won’t provide the impact, coverage, or rotation needed for thorough cleaning. Tank cleaning nozzles are specifically engineered for 360° coverage, optimized spray patterns, and repeatable cleaning results.

Reality: More water does not always equal better cleaning. Oversized flow rates can waste water and energy without actually improving cleaning efficiency. Instead, factors like spray impact, droplet size, and nozzle rotation play a much bigger role. With the right nozzle selection, you can often clean faster using less water and less CIP chemicals.

Reality: While rotary jet heads provide high-impact cleaning, they are not always necessary or cost-effective. For lightly soiled tanks, static or free-spinning nozzles may be more efficient and require less maintenance. The key is matching the nozzle type to the soil type, tank size, and cleaning requirements.

Reality: Even the best-designed nozzles need proper care. Over time, wear, clogging, or chemical exposure can reduce efficiency. Routine inspection and maintenance, or replacement when needed, ensures consistent performance and prevents contamination risks. Lechler offers refurbishment and replacement options to extend nozzle life.

Reality: The difference between a generic nozzle and a precision-engineered nozzle can be dramatic. Lechler tank and equipment cleaning nozzles are backed by decades of engineering expertise, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) testing, and rigorous quality control. This ensures consistent spray performance, durability, and compliance with industry standards in food, beverage, chemical, and pharmaceutical applications.

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Tank cleaning is too critical to leave to guesswork. By understanding the realities behind these misconceptions, facilities can improve efficiency, reduce water and chemical consumption, and achieve higher levels of hygiene and safety.

Lechler, Inc. offers a full range of tank cleaning nozzles and systems designed for applications of every scale, from simple rinsing to heavy-duty residue removal. Our experts can help you select the right nozzle for your tank, ensuring optimal cleaning results while lowering operational costs.

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