Industrial PVC screen replacement for food manufacturing systems

PROJECT:

Industrial PVC screen direct replacement – fryer and optical sorting

INDUSTRY TYPE:

Food manufacturing

CLIENT:

Food manufacturer (confidential client)

LOCATION:

Australia

Initial project requirements:

Ford Engineering and Installations Pty Ltd engaged Flexshield Group to supply and install replacement screens for a fryer and an optical sorting system at a large food manufacturing facility.

The project required:

Screen-only replacement upgrades
Retention of existing track systems, and
Removal of old screens and installation of new units.

Challenges presented by the operating environment included elevated temperatures, airborne oils, and regular chemical washdowns. The replacement screens would need to support hygiene standards while protecting Health, Safety, Productivity and operational continuity. On top of this, durability, clarity, and compliance were essential.

This was a repeat engagement between Ford Engineering and Flexshield, a sign of their ongoing trust in our capability and material performance in demanding production environments.

Flexshield solution:

The Flexshield team supplied purpose-selected PVC screen upgrades, tailored to each system, and installed them on site.

Fryer area: heavy-duty 2mm PVC screen

For the fryer application, increased heat resistance and long-term durability were priorities.

Specification included:

SonicClear 2mm thick chemical-resistant PVC
Premium-grade material to ensure extended service life under heat and contaminant exposure
Reinforced welds
Reinforced top mounting eyelets
Fixed-style configuration to accommodate material rigidity

To support safe handling and installation, the curtain was manufactured in multiple sections due to the added weight of the 2mm PVC. Joining methods were implemented to maintain integrity and function.

The heavier-grade material provided improved resistance to thermal stress while maintaining clear visibility and physical separation within the processing area.

Optical sorting area: flexible 1mm PVC screen

For the optical sorting system, flexibility and chemical resistance were priorities.

Specification included:

SonicClear 1mm thick chemical-resistant PVC
Reinforced welds
Reinforced top mounting eyelets
New pull cord
Existing track retained

The lighter 1mm PVC allowed improved flexibility while maintaining chemical durability and visual clarity.

To minimise disruption to production and maintain site safety standards, the installation was completed on approved weekdays.

Results achieved:

Upon installation the new screens delivered:

Improved durability in high-heat fryer conditions
Greater resistance to oils and cleaning chemicals
Maintained visibility and hygiene separation
Seamless integration with existing infrastructure
Minimal disruption to production during installation

For our repeat client, operating in a high-demand food manufacturing environment, the upgrades provided reliable, long-lasting performance. Flexshield Group once again demonstrated our ability to deliver screening systems that are engineered for operational demands, while supporting Health, Safety, Productivity.

For a detailed assessment and consultation, call Flexshield on 1300 799 969 or contact us online.