Sycamore Process Engineering in the UK has successfully designed, manufactured, installed and commissioned a fully automated, single-channel modular Clean-in-Place (CIP) system for a Müller Yogurts & Desserts production facility.

Engineered to provide efficient, reliable cleaning of stainless-steel mobile tanks, the bespoke system combines hygienic design, operational efficiency and ease of maintenance within a compact footprint. The installation is designed to enhance cleaning performance, improve hygiene standards and support long-term operational reliability.

The project required Sycamore to overcome several engineering challenges. The new CIP system was designed to deliver a maximum cleaning flow rate of 50,000 litres per hour while operating within a restricted installation space. As part of the solution, Sycamore also designed, manufactured and installed a 16-way mobile tank docking station, enabling the safe and efficient connection of multiple mobile tanks to streamline cleaning operations.

To support the project, Sycamore’s engineering team utilised a shared 3D design environment, allowing close collaboration between internal teams and Müller Yogurts & Desserts throughout the design phase. This collaborative approach improved design accuracy, accelerated project delivery and ensured seamless integration within a live production environment.

A key focus throughout the project was maximising the available footprint without compromising accessibility, maintainability or operational performance. Careful equipment positioning and service routing created a layout that supports safe and efficient day-to-day operation while simplifying future maintenance activities.

Site access presented an additional challenge, as the only viable route into the facility was through the process building roof. To overcome this constraint, the CIP system was designed using a modular construction approach, allowing the equipment to be fully assembled, piped and wired at Sycamore’s workshop before undergoing a successful Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) witnessed by the Müller Yogurts & Desserts team.

Following approval, the modular sections were transported to site, lifted into position using specialist lifting equipment and reassembled by Sycamore’s installation team. This approach reduced onsite installation time, minimised project risk and ensured efficient delivery despite the challenging access requirements.

The completed installation is providing several operational benefits for Müller Yogurts & Desserts, including:

• Increased cleaning efficiency through automated, high-capacity CIP operation.
• Improved hygiene and product safety through consistent, reliable cleaning performance.
• Reduced maintenance requirements and downtime through robust engineering and accessible system design.
• Greater operational flexibility through the integration of a 16-way mobile tank docking station.