Cider Processing Facility Trench Drains
Cider processing facilities experience a unique mix of challenges — acidic byproducts, sugary residues, and constant washdowns. Effective trench drainage is essential to maintain hygienic, slip-free, and odor-free working environments. TrenchDrainCo trench drain systems are engineered to withstand organic acids, cleaning chemicals, and high temperatures, ensuring long-term performance from press to packaging. Built for sanitation and strength, TrenchDrainCo delivers the durability cider makers depend on during every stage of production.
Key Requirements
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Load Rating
Typically B125 to D400, depending on the zone.
• Pressing, fermentation, and washdown areas: B125–C250 for carts and foot traffic.
• Packaging and cold storage zones: C250–D400 for pallet jacks and forklifts.
• Outdoor loading and waste collection areas: D400 for light vehicle access.
• Tasting or retail areas: A15–B125 for pedestrian-only spaces.
Drainage systems must balance hygienic performance with strength under equipment loads.
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Material Durability
Apple acids, sugars, and detergents demand highly corrosion-resistant and easy-to-clean systems.
• 316 stainless steel channels and grates for complete acid resistance and hygiene.
• Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) or Polymer Concrete channels for load-bearing areas.
• HDPE channels for light-duty or retrofit installations.
• Slip-resistant stainless or composite grates for wet production zones.
• Watertight seals and smooth interior finishes to prevent sticky residue buildup.
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Site Conditions
• Frequent hot water and chemical washdowns.
• Acidic residues from apple juice and fermentation byproducts.
• Floor slope of 1–2% toward drains for complete evacuation.
• Integration with wastewater treatment or pH-neutralization systems for environmental compliance.
• Temperature fluctuations between processing and storage zones require materials with thermal stability.
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User Requirements
• Hygiene: Sanitary, smooth channels that resist microbial growth and sugar buildup.
• Chemical resistance: Tolerate fruit acids, sulfites, and detergents.
• Safety: Slip-resistant grates that ensure traction in wet or sticky conditions.
• Aesthetic integration: Stainless finishes for public-facing tasting or retail zones.
• Ease of maintenance: Quick grate removal and debris strainers for cleaning.
• Odor control: Airtight seals to prevent fermentation gases or residue odors.
Recommended TrenchDrainCo Systems
TrenchDrainCo Stainless Cider Series
316 stainless steel trench drain system engineered for cider production — hygienic, corrosion-resistant, and built for washdowns.
TrenchDrainCo 200 Series
Fiber-reinforced concrete channels with stainless edge rails for heavy-duty equipment areas.
TrenchDrainCo Sierra 5 Shallow Linear System
Shallow-profile stainless system for tasting rooms and retail spaces.
TrenchDrainCo Model 600
Lightweight, chemical-resistant option for auxiliary processing zones or retrofits.
Engineering Notes
When designing trench drains for cider facilities:
- Always specify 316 stainless steel in areas with juice exposure or fermentation discharge to prevent acid corrosion.
- Use radius-bottom channels for complete self-cleaning and residue removal.
- Include sediment baskets or strainers to collect fruit solids and pulp.
- Verify compatibility with local wastewater regulations for fruit acid effluent.
- Incorporate non-slip surfaces and flush grates to ensure worker safety.
- Design drainage to accommodate seasonal production surges and high-volume washdowns.
Built for the craft of cider. Engineered for performance.
Contact TrenchDrainCo to design a hygienic, acid-resistant trench drain system for your cider production facility.
📞 Call us: 212-946-3798
📧 Email us: info@trenchdrainco.com
