Acidic organic fats, lactose, dairy proteins and by-products including water, brine and whey will penetrate an unprotected concrete surface, soaking deep into the slab, leading to corrosion and weakening of the surface.

In addition, floors found in dairy processing and cheese production facilities are subject to heavy forklift and pallet truck traffic as well as thermal shock conditions resulting from pressurized steam cleaning - both of which can lead to mechanical damage of an insufficiently protected surface.

Flowcrete Americas offers a complete package of specialty polymer flooring systems to cater for all areas within dairy facilities, including the company’s Flowfresh range, which has been certified by HACCP International as both food-safe and able to meet the requirements of all facilities operating a HACCP based Food Safety Program.

Flowfresh is  a non porous, non tainting once cured and phthalate-free hard flooring surface which is typically trowelled or slurry broadcast to deliver a seamless finish that is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, solvents and food by-products as well as intermittent temperatures of up to 250°F – making it ideal for facilities undertaking hot water wash-down and steam cleaning practices.

The Flowfresh range contains a natural silver-ion based antimicrobial additive, Polygiene®, which is included within the resin matrix to protect the finished surface from degradation caused by microorganisms and can also be adjusted to meet varying slip resistance requirements in both dry and wet areas in order to minimize slip risks.

Flowcrete Americas Flowfresh range also includes a coving mortar system – to ensure a hygienic transition between the floor and wall. Additionally, all Flowfresh systems can be graded to drainage channels.

Flowcrete Americas also offers dairy and cheese brands a range of fast-cure, decorative and specialist systems for use in other areas of the facility including walk-in-coolers, offices, staff-break out areas, warehouses and loading bays.

Dairy and cheese brands can learn more about Flowcrete Americas’ extensive range of polymer flooring material at the upcoming PROCESS EXPO and the International Dairy Show (Sept. 15–18, 2015; McCormick Place, Chicago, IL) on booth 2908.

 Alternatively, find out more by downloading the company’s new ‘Dairy Processing & Cheese Production Facilities Flooring Guide’ or visiting www.flowcreteamericas.com