Dirk Loeffler, Loeffler Chemical Corporation, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A.
Cleaning and Sanitation
Thursday, October 12
1:30–3:15 p.m.
Imperial Salon B
As brewery processes and operations grow more complex, sanitation problems often arise. Many of these sanitation issues can be traced back to fluid mechanical issues. This paper will look at some commonly found problems in the field and discuss both solutions and approaches for the brewery to stay ahead of these problems. CIP system design will be discussed and design considerations given. From CIP spray ball pressures and designs to balancing flow in closed systems, many common fluid mechanical issues can be avoided if just a few simple rules are being followed. Specific examples will be given from the field and step-by-step troubleshooting guides.
Dirk Loeffler is the technical director of Loeffler Chemical Corporation, a chemical company specializing in sanitation products and chemical automation for breweries with corporate offices in Atlanta, Georgia. In his position, Dirk continuously develops and implements new products, cleaning technologies, and automation systems. Dirk came to the United States from Germany in 1992 to lay the groundwork for the U.S. operations of Loeffler, resulting in the incorporation of Loeffler Chemical Corporation in 1994. Born and raised in Cologne, Germany, Dirk graduated in Cologne with a degree in business administration. He then worked for Chemische Fabrik Kalk GmbH, a BASF subsidiary, before joining the Loeffler family business in 1989, where he worked in technical sales and research and development. Dirk lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife Alexis and their twin boys Kai and Sebastian. Dirk has been an active member of the Master Brewers Association of the Americas since 1993 and currently serves as an officer for District Mid-South. He is also an active member of the Brewers Association as well as the American Society of Brewing Chemists.
