When cleaning tanks with a CIP system, a self-priming CIP return pump is required. A CIP return pump must be capable of pumping a mixture of liquid and air, otherwise, it will easily become air locked. A standard centrifugal pump is not a good choice and if you are using it for this application you will not recover all of the cleaning solution which can waste chemicals and time.

 Improve Cleanability:

If you have the bottom of the tank filled with cleaning solution, you are not getting adequate mechanical force to cleaning the bottom of the tank.

Maintenance reduction:

If you are using a standard centrifugal pump instead, a self-priming CIP return pump cavitation can occur. This will occurred when the pump suction contains a mixture of liquid and air. Pump cavitation can severely damage the pump impeller blades, also cause the pump to run dry. When a pump runs dry it can create wear on the mechanical seal, due to no lubrication between the seal faces, which leads to downtime, loss of product, production, and profits.

If you hear strange noises coming from your pump, this is probably the cause.